The former First Son and Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) leader Jimmy Akena has thrown his weight behind opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye’s hunger strike calling it a legitimate tool against what he describes as the growing interference of security forces in Uganda’s political affairs.
Akena while addressing the ongoing political storm warned that what is happening to Besigye today could happen to any Ugandan tomorrow.
His remarks come at a time as Besigye resorts to extreme measures in protest against his detention sparking national and international debate over the role of security organs in Uganda’s politics.
Dr. Kizza Besigye known for his relentless fight for democracy in Uganda has chosen the path of a hunger strike to protest what he calls his illegal detention and the broader suppression of political protests.
“Personally, I feel that the option available and the option that has been taken up by Dr. Kizza Besigye is a real option for any of us who may find ourselves incarcerated for whatever reason. It would make sense that you use whatever tool that is available,” Akena stated.
Akena did not stop at supporting Besigye’s hunger strike, he called on Ugandans to take this moment to critically examine the increasing role of security forces in political affairs.
“It can be any of us. Today, it might be Besigye, tomorrow it might be Akena facing the same situation,” he cautioned, highlighting the unpredictability of Uganda’s politics.
A hunger strike is one of the most extreme forms of protest often undertaken when all other avenues have been exhausted.
His move mirrors similar protests by political prisoners and activists globally, from Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent resistance in India to Nelson Mandela’s defiance against apartheid in South Africa.
As of now, the Ugandan government has remained largely silent on Akena’s comments and Besigye’s hunger strike.
Security agencies continue to hold their ground while activists, civil society organizations, and opposition supporters escalate their calls for justice.
On the streets and online, Ugandans remain divided some see Besigye’s hunger strike as a heroic act of defiance while others question whether such a method will yield any real change.
Meanwhile, Akena’s bold stance has added fuel to the fire, reinforcing the belief that Uganda’s political opposition is facing its most difficult test yet. With Besigye’s health on the line, the pressure is mounting.
