A fresh dispute has emerged over the health and court appearance of Ugandan opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye, with his wife, Winnie Byanyima, challenging the account given by a prison officer in court.
The dispute comes as Besigye continues to face treason charges while dealing with serious health problems. Recent reports say he was returned to the Luzira Prison Hospital after receiving treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital. Uganda Prisons Service has maintained that he is receiving medical care and that his condition is improving.
During court proceedings this week, Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Emmanuel Hiire told the High Court that Besigye had been informed that he could participate in the proceedings through Zoom but had declined to attend. The court later allowed the treason case to proceed in his absence.
However, Besigye’s family has disputed that explanation. Byanyima says her husband is still in poor health and needs proper medical attention. She has previously said he remains too weak to walk, speak properly or perform some basic tasks without help.
The latest disagreement has raised fresh questions about whether Besigye is physically fit to take part in court proceedings.
The issue is especially sensitive because Besigye collapsed during a court session on July 29 and was taken to hospital. The High Court had earlier directed medical experts to assess his condition and determine whether he was fit to stand trial.
Byanyima has continued to call for her husband’s release so that he can receive specialised treatment outside Uganda. She has said that after recovering, Besigye would return to face the charges against him.
The latest developments are likely to keep pressure on Uganda’s authorities as concerns over Besigye’s health continue to dominate his court case.