news 28 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Gen Salim Saleh Leading Talks for Dr Kizza Besigye's Release, Says Minister Balaam
State Minister Balaam Barugahara revealed in Rukungiri that General Salim Saleh is heading negotiations to secure the freedom of jailed opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/salim-saleh-leading-talks-to-release-jailed-besigye-minister-balaam-tells-rukungiri-residents-5650060
Minister for Local Government Balaam Barugahara has disclosed that General Salim Saleh, younger brother to President Yoweri Museveni, is spearheading high-level discussions aimed at securing the release of detained veteran opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye.
Mr. Barugahara made the announcement while addressing residents during an anti-corruption campaign rally held at the Rukungiri Main Stadium in the Southern Division of Rukungiri District. The government-backed event, designed to mobilize local communities against corruption and encourage better implementation of public programs, took an unexpected twist when crowds began chanting Dr. Besigye’s name inside the venue.
The public remarks shed light on behind-the-scenes efforts regarding the prominent opposition figure’s detention, though the disclosure has previously met with mixed reactions from political circles and the politician’s inner circle. While government officials hint at diplomatic and high-level negotiations, allies and family members have often maintained distinct stances on the conditions surrounding his legal and political status.
As discussions reportedly continue under the stewardship of Gen. Saleh, residents and political observers across the country remain watchful for any formal developments regarding Dr. Besigye’s potential freedom.
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