Written By | Peter Luzinda
Besigye collapsed shortly after strongly objecting to the court's decision to appoint state-funded lawyers to represent him, insisting that he be allowed legal counsel of his own choosing
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KAMPALA
Concern continues to grow over the health of opposition leader and retired Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, who remained in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Mulago National Referral Hospital on Saturday, three days after collapsing during a High Court hearing in his ongoing treason trial.
The 70-year-old politician was rushed to hospital on Wednesday after he suddenly lost consciousness while appearing before Justice Emmanuel Baguma. The hearing was immediately adjourned as prison officers and medical personnel responded before transferring him to Mbuya Military Hospital and later to Mulago National Referral Hospital under tight security.
Besigye collapsed shortly after strongly objecting to the court's decision to appoint state-funded lawyers to represent him, insisting that he be allowed legal counsel of his own choosing.
By Saturday afternoon, neither the Uganda Prisons Service nor Mulago National Referral Hospital had issued an official update on his medical condition, prompting continued concern among his family, lawyers and political supporters.
His wife, Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS, said Besigye was unconscious and unresponsive when he arrived at the hospital. She added that he had requested to be treated by his personal physician rather than government-employed doctors.
Besigye's sister, Dr. Olive Kobusingye, was later granted access to the ICU after initially being denied entry during the court proceedings.
On Friday, a delegation from the People's Front for Freedom (PFF), including Harold Kaija, Doreen Nyanjura and Ingrid Turinawe, attempted to visit Besigye but was turned away after hospital officials cited restrictions on ICU visits. The delegation questioned the heavy security presence around the hospital ward.
The High Court has adjourned the case until August 4, 2026, and directed prison authorities to submit a medical report detailing Besigye's condition and indicating whether he is fit to continue standing trial.
Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time political opponent of President Yoweri Museveni, is facing treason charges alongside Obeid Lutale and other co-accused. All have denied the charges.
His hospitalisation has intensified calls from opposition politicians, lawyers and human rights advocates for greater transparency regarding his medical condition, respect for his legal rights, and access to medical care from a physician of his choice.
The case, together with Besigye's health, remains under close public scrutiny as Ugandans await further updates from the authorities, medical officials and his family.
