Besigye sues Museveni's son Muhoozi
Ugandan opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye has filed a lawsuit against Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, President Yoweri Museveni's son, at the High Court.
The case centers on claims that the general made repeated threats against Besigye's life through social media posts, including references to hanging or shooting him on Heroes' Day. Besigye, who has been in detention since November 2024 along with his aide Hajji Obeid Lutale, argues that these statements violate his constitutional rights.
In the court application, Besigye cited specific online messages attributed to Muhoozi, such as declarations that they would hang him on Heroes' Day or treat him as a "dead man walking." These allegations form part of a broader effort to stop the ongoing criminal proceedings against him. The opposition leader maintains that the threats have compounded the challenges he faces while in custody at Makindye Military barracks.
Besigye was arrested in Nairobi during a book launch event and transferred to Uganda, where he faces treason charges. Prosecutors allege involvement in plans to solicit funds, acquire weapons, and organize operations, including a thwarted scheme to train recruits in Kisumu, Kenya. He has raised concerns about the legality of his transfer without formal extradition, denial of access to lawyers and family, and being tried as a civilian in a military court.
The two accused will remain in remand until June 11, 2026, when the prosecution is set to present its first witness. This legal development highlights ongoing tensions in Uganda's political landscape as Besigye seeks to address both the threats and the fairness of his detention and trial process. The case continues to draw attention to issues of rights and justice in the country.
