Lawyer Eron Kiiza has challenged reports of ongoing discussions seeking the release of detained Ugandan opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye, arguing that his client’s medical condition makes political negotiations unnecessary.
Kiiza said Besigye is currently too ill to participate in any negotiations, while questioning the basis of efforts reportedly involving senior political figures seeking a political solution to his continued detention.
In a statement responding to the reports, the lawyer said there was no indication that Besigye was interested in negotiating his freedom.
“The plain truth is that even if Kizza Besigye were minded to negotiate, and there is no indication that he is, he is far too ill to do so,” Kiiza said.
He further claimed that the government was aware of Besigye’s condition and pointed to his continued hospitalisation at the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC), where he is reportedly under military guard.
“The Government knows this. He lies in a hospital (JCRC) under military guard. His life is at stake,” the lawyer said.
Kiiza argued that Besigye’s deteriorating health should be treated as a legal and humanitarian matter rather than a political bargaining issue.
According to the lawyer, the law provides grounds for releasing an accused person on medical grounds, meaning that the State does not need to secure a political agreement before allowing Besigye to leave detention.
“Releasing him on medical grounds requires no negotiation, no deal, and no political concession,” Kiiza said.
His comments come amid reports of efforts involving Gen Salim Saleh and representatives from different political groups to find a way of securing Besigye’s release.
Reports indicate that an eminent persons’ committee has been established to support Saleh’s engagement, with opposition figures also expected to participate in discussions. The Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue has reportedly considered the matter as political actors explore possible avenues for resolving the impasse.
However, Kiiza maintained that Besigye’s immediate concern should be his health and legal rights.
He invoked the constitutional principle of humane treatment and the presumption of innocence, arguing that the continued detention of a seriously ill accused person raises fundamental legal questions.
“Grave illness is a recognised ground for bail, and the Constitution guarantees him humane treatment and the presumption of innocence,” he said.
Kiiza went further to argue that the legal framework places an obligation on the State to act.
“The law does not merely permit his release; it demands it. Every day of delay is a choice, and the State will own its consequences,” he said.
Besigye remains facing treason-related charges alongside co-accused Obeid Lutale and UPDF Captain Denis Oola. He has denied the allegations.
The reported political discussions are taking place alongside the ongoing court process, with no public announcement so far confirming a final agreement or specific conditions for Besigye’s release.