Medical professionals are calling on the Ugandan government to urgently allow opposition leader Kizza Besigye access to specialized medical care after his health reportedly worsened while he remains in prison.
The plea comes amid growing concerns over the conditions and medical treatment available to detainees particularly those with serious health issues.
Besigye a prominent figure in Uganda’s political landscape and a longtime critic of President Yoweri Museveni has been in custody for several weeks.
His supporters say his condition has deteriorated significantly sparking alarm among both local and international observers.
Doctors involved in monitoring his health have reportedly raised concerns that the prison medical facilities may not be adequately equipped to handle his specific needs.
They insist that specialized treatment possibly outside the prison system is necessary to prevent further deterioration.
This is a matter of basic human rights and medical ethics said one of the doctors speaking on condition of anonymity.
The government must ensure he receives appropriate care regardless of his legal status.
Human rights advocates have joined the call arguing that denying specialized medical attention could amount to cruel and inhumane treatment.
They stress that political detainees should not be deprived of essential healthcare services.
The government has not yet publicly responded to the doctors’ demands.
However pressure is mounting from civil society groups and international bodies who say the authorities must prioritize the health and well-being of prisoners.
As the situation develops the fate of Besigye’s health remains uncertain with medical experts warning that any delay in proper treatment could have serious consequences.
By Meta