Adam Ampa Besigye, son to veteran opposition politician Dr Kizza Besigye, has appealed to President Yoweri Museveni and the Chief of Defence Forces Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to show mercy, compassion, and humanity to his detained father and grant him his freedom.
In an open letter shared on his social media following the collapse of Dr Besigye on Wednesday at the start of his treason trial, Ampa described watching Besigye fainting in court as a heart-breaking moment, one, no son should ever witness.
Ampa noted that his father’s health continues to deteriorate, and the country risks losing not only one of its most recognized political but also an opportunity to demonstrate that justice is stronger than political rivalry.
“My family firmly believes he is innocent of the allegations against him and has never sought to harm you or your family. Throughout his life, he has stood by his convictions and pursued political change through his beliefs, even when those beliefs have placed him in opposition to your government” he said.
Ampa further urged Museveni and Muhoozi that whatever personal disagreements have existed over the years, between them and his father didn’t need to end in tragedy.
“I respectfully ask that you consider his age, his declining health, and the humanitarian concerns surrounding his continued detention. Please allow him access to appropriate medical care and every protection afforded under the law” he said.
He further urged them to consider releasing Dr Besigye, so he may return to his family and beloved ones.
“It’s well known his in custody under your orders. As his son, I do not wish to inherit bitterness. I wish to see reconciliation. I hope that one day Ugandans of every political belief can look back and say that compassion prevailed over conflict” he said.
Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, in a post on her X revealed that Dr Besigye is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) at Mulago National Referral Hospital, where his condition remains unstable and that only his sister and personal doctor, Dr Olive Kobusingye, have been allowed to visit him.
“Please join me in praying for @kizzabesigye1 and demanding justice. He has been admitted to the ICU at Mulago Hospital. He is unconscious, unable to speak, and unresponsive even to a pain stimulus” she said.
She added, “Before he collapsed, he cried out that he was being injured. His sister, Dr Kobusingye, was in court but was not allowed to attend to him. What happened to KB? One day, @KagutaMuseveni and his son @mkainerugaba will have to answer that question.” She said.
Besigye fainted in court on while opposing Justice Emmanuel Baguma’s order for the trial to proceed and three court assessors sworn in despite objections from Besigye and his co-accused, Obed Lutale.
Besigye and his co-accused, Obed Lutale, are charged with allegedly being involved in a plot to overthrow the government.
