By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
Opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye’s health has deteriorated to a critical state, his political party, the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF).
“We have received credible reports that Dr. Besigye was rushed in the night from Luzira Prison to a medical facility at Bugolobi Village Mall under heavy security,” the party posted on X.
The reports which started circulating online last evening have raised fresh concerns over the former four times presidential contender’s medical care while in custody.
“The health of our leader, Dr Kizza Besigye, has reached a critical and deteriorating state,” the party said, adding that he was transferred during the night.
The party accused the authorities of denying the veteran opposition leader access to adequate medical care, describing the situation as a violation of his rights.
“It is a tragedy that a man who has dedicated his life to the health and freedom of others is being denied his own right to medical dignity,” the statement read.
The PFF said it holds the government and prison authorities fully accountable for Dr Besigye’s well-being and demanded that his personal doctors and family be granted “immediate and unrestricted access” to him.
“We reiterate that Dr Besigye is being held in total disregard of the law. He must be freed to receive the care he deserves,” the party said.
The government has however dismissed the reports as unfounded, stating that Dr Besigye adding that his condition was stable. Speaking to Parrots Media on Tuesday, Uganda Prisons Service spokesperson Frank Baine said Dr Besigye was escorted to a hospital to attend a scheduled follow-up appointment with his doctor.
“Dr Besigye was rushed to the hospital for a health check-up follow-up with his doctor and was later returned to Luzira Prison,” Baine said.
Meanwhile, Parrots Media has learned that Eng Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS and wife to Dr Besigye, is expected to address the media later today at couple’s home in Kasangati at 11am, over concerns about what has been described as secrecy surrounding her husband’s deteriorating health and the manner in which prison authorities are handling his condition.
