By Jumah Kakomo
The Justice Forum (JEEMA), a leading opposition party in Uganda, is urging the Kenyan government to take immediate diplomatic action and issue a formal apology following the controversial arrest and alleged abduction of Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye. Besigye, a long-time critic of Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, was reportedly seized from Nairobi and forcibly taken back to Uganda, where he is facing charges in a military court related to security and unlawful possession of firearms.
Dr. Kizza Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate, has been a constant figure in Uganda’s political opposition, known for his outspoken activism against the government. Over the years, he has been arrested numerous times on charges ranging from treason to unlawful possession of firearms. His most recent arrest occurred in 2022 during protests over rising commodity prices in Uganda, although he was later granted bail, which he declined due to the high fees.
The Justice Forum (JEEMA) condemned the recent arrest, with party spokesman Dr. Swaibu Kaggwa Nsereko describing the incident as a “blatant violation of Dr. Besigye’s human rights.” Dr. Swaibu argued that Kenya’s involvement in the abduction undermines its commitment to human rights and international law. “The Kenyan government must take responsibility for its actions and apologize for its role in Dr. Besigye’s arrest,” Dr. Swaibu stated, calling the move a dangerous precedent that risks straining relations between Uganda and Kenya.
The arrest of Dr. Besigye has sparked outrage among human rights advocates and opposition parties, who argue that the abduction demonstrates a worrying disregard for regional cooperation on human rights. Dr. Swaibu also called on the international community to take a stand and demand Dr. Besigye’s immediate release, stressing that the incident highlights the need for stronger regional cooperation and respect for individual freedoms.
“The people of Uganda and Kenya deserve better. We demand justice, accountability, and respect for human rights,” Dr. Swaibu added.
As of now, Kenyan authorities have not made any public statements regarding their involvement in Dr. Besigye’s arrest, and it remains unclear whether the Ugandan opposition leader will face further charges or possible sentencing in Uganda’s military court.
