The collapse of veteran Ugandan opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye in court has ignited fresh political tensions, with exiled academic and activist Stella Nyanzi delivering a scathing critique of the state’s handling of his case.
Besigye was rushed to Mulago National Referral Hospital on July 29 after collapsing during a High Court session in Kampala, where he is facing treason charges.
The dramatic incident occurred shortly after he protested the proceedings, insisting on the presence of his preferred legal team.
Court was immediately adjourned as security officers moved him out for emergency medical attention.
He is currently admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, with limited official communication on his condition.
Nyanzi condemned the continuation of legal pressure against the opposition figure, framing it as both unjust and politically driven.
“He lies quiet and still in Mulago’s ICU. Go ahead and try him now. He will not raise his hand to ask questions. He will not point his accusing finger,” she wrote.
Her remarks suggest that Besigye’s current medical state undermines the legitimacy of any ongoing judicial process, arguing that a defendant unable to actively participate cannot be subjected to a fair trial.
“He will not shout bullets of truth to power. He will not defy your rape of our constitution. He is all yours to try, convict and sentence,” Nyanzi added, in a passage that sharply criticises state institutions.
The activist also accused authorities of pursuing a predetermined outcome, claiming the case is less about justice and more about silencing dissent.
“You badly want to find him guilty. You desperately need him guilty,” she stated, questioning the motivations behind the prosecution.
Despite the charged tone, Nyanzi’s statement also carried a message of solidarity with the ailing opposition leader, emphasizing continued public support.
“We shall not stop loving him. We shall not stop praying for him. We shall not stop following his example,” she said.
Besigye’s allies have long maintained that the charges against him are politically motivated, a claim the government has consistently denied.
His sudden collapse has now intensified scrutiny from rights groups and legal observers, particularly over whether the trial should proceed while he remains hospitalized.