The reported talks over Kizza Besigye’s freedom have taken a dramatic turn after his wife, Winnie Byanyima, firmly denied that any negotiations are taking place to secure his release.
Byanyima’s statement has added fresh tension to an already sensitive political situation in Uganda. Reports had suggested that Gen Salim Saleh was leading discussions involving different political and religious figures in an effort to find a way forward for Besigye, who remains in custody while facing treason charges.
But Byanyima has now drawn a clear line between political dialogue and negotiations over her husband’s freedom.
She said Besigye maintains his innocence and has not entered into any negotiations or plea bargain. According to her, his health and freedom should not be used as bargaining tools in any political process.
Instead, Byanyima is demanding that Besigye be granted bail so that he can return home and receive proper medical care. She also revealed that his defence team had submitted a fifth bail application and appealed to the trial judge to schedule a hearing.
The development comes at a particularly sensitive moment, with Besigye’s health and court proceedings attracting growing attention. Recent reports indicate that he remains in a fragile condition, while his trial continues at the High Court in Kampala.
Many people were left talking after Byanyima’s strong response, especially because reports of the alleged talks had created expectations that a political solution could be emerging.
The incident sparked reactions online, with supporters appearing divided over whether dialogue involving government and opposition figures could help resolve the wider political crisis.
Byanyima, however, insists that any genuine national dialogue should be open and inclusive, but separate from Besigye’s freedom and health.