President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reacted to the ongoing concerns surrounding the arrest and remand of veteran opposition strongman Dr. Kizza Besigye.
In a long post on his official ‘X’ handle, President Museveni asserts that Besigye’s actions are not only about political posturing but also endangering Uganda’s security. Museveni’s strong statement comes as the opposition leader faces serious charges, including plans to overthrow the government, being in possession of firearms and treachery.
In a blistering message, the president insists that Ugandans should focus on one question: “Why was Dr. Besigye arrested?” instead on focusing solely on aspects of his release and sympathy linked to the politician’s self imposed hunger strike.
“That is part of the cause for his weakness that we could see in the pictures that were in the Newspapers. Is that not unprincipled blackmail? How can you be accused of serious crimes and, then, your response is hunger strike to generate sympathy for getting bail, etc.?” He said
The President’s answer is a quick trial to ensure the truth comes out and to prevent further insecurity.
“The more correct question, should be: “Naye Dr.Besigye bamukwatila ki? Why was Dr.Besigye arrested?” The answer to that is a quick trial so that facts come out. Otherwise, you are promoting insecurity which is very dangerous for the country. Nobody in the world can easily give us lectures on reconciliation and forgiveness because that is part of our doctrine right from the 1960s.”he writes
Museveni acknowledges the country’s long-standing tradition of reconciliation but stresses that accountability remains at the core of Uganda’s doctrine. He points to the sacrifices made by Uganda’s freedom fighters in the past.
He asserts that the nation’s peace was built on the removal of those who threatened national security.
“However, our strategy and doctrine are also based on accountability by the mistake makers, especially those who kill Ugandans. We are now able to remember Janani Luwum, Benedicto Kiwanuka, Kiingo Chemonges, Edward Mutesa, etc., moving through a peaceful Uganda and travelling on good tarmac roads, because the freedom fighters sacrificed themselves and defeated Idi Amin and all the other killers.” he adds
The president questions Besigye’s hunger strike, suggesting it was nothing more than unprincipled blackmail aimed at generating sympathy and stalling the trial.
“If you are innocent, why do you not demand for a quick trial so that you can prove your innocence and expose those who are “persecuting” you instead of demanding bail, forgiveness, as if serious crime is also entitled to holidays?” he questions
Museveni also states that Besigye’s medical needs are being met, with government hospitals available in prison and his personal doctors actively involved in his care.
“A gov’t hospital in the Prison. Besides, Dr. Besigye’s personal doctors have been visiting him and even taking him to private clinics. If there was need for any additional medical care, the Gov’t would be advised.” he adds
Museveni urged the opposition leader to demand a fast trial.
“Why don’t you demand a quick trial? The military court was ready for the trial. Let us wait for the civilian court.” he asserts
Besigye, 68, faces offenses related to illegal possession of a firearm and threatening national security. Besigye also faces a separate charge of treachery, a crime under military law that carried the death penalty.
