Byanyima Expresses Deep Concern Over Besigye's Critical Condition in ICU

Dr. Kizza Besigye, a long-standing opposition leader and four-time presidential candidate in Uganda, is currently in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Mulago National Referral Hospital. His wife, Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS, described her shock at seeing him in such a critical state, stating, “This is not the man I left.”

Besigye’s admission to the ICU followed a dramatic collapse in the High Court on July 29, 2026. The incident occurred as he vehemently protested the court’s decision to appoint lawyers for him, after his preferred legal team was unavailable. He reportedly cried out that he was being harmed before losing consciousness.

Following the collapse, Besigye was initially taken to Mbuya Military Hospital before being transferred under heavy guard to Mulago. Byanyima later released a statement confirming Besigye was unconscious and unresponsive, raising concerns about his medical care and requesting his transfer to a facility where trusted doctors could manage his treatment.

The family’s struggle for access to Besigye has also been highlighted, with his sister, Dr. Olive Kobusingye, initially denied entry to the ICU, which remained under significant security presence.

Byanyima has emphasized that Besigye’s situation raises broader issues of fundamental rights, arguing that all Ugandans deserve timely medical care and protection of their constitutional rights, irrespective of political affiliation.

Besigye has been in custody since November 2024, facing treason charges. His health has been a recurring concern, with previous reports of inadequate medical care, hospitalization due to a hunger strike, and a general decline in his condition.

This latest hospitalization has intensified scrutiny on his treatment in detention. The High Court has ordered a comprehensive medical report to determine Besigye’s fitness to stand trial, with the case adjourned until August 18.

As Dr. Besigye remains in intensive care, the focus has shifted from his legal battles to pressing questions about his health, his rights, and the treatment of detainees in Uganda.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)