The Opposition in parliament has tasked both the governments of Uganda and Kenya to explain the ‘illegal’ arrest of veteran politician; Dr. Kizza Besigye in Kenya. 

Kyadondo East MP and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Muwada Nkunyingi claims that there were no extradition proceedings or record of Dr. Besigye being wanted on any criminal charges. 

He says such acts raise concern among Ugandans living in Kenya and Kenyans living in Uganda about their security. 

Nkunyingi adds that Uganda has no prisoner exchange agreement with Kenya, and even if it did, the Ugandan Government would need court permission to arrest Besigye in Kenya with Kenyan security assistance.

Yesterday, Dr. Besigye along with Haji Obed Lutale Kamulegeya appeared before the General Court Martial in Makindye, where they were charged with possession of two pistols and soliciting for logistical support to compromise Uganda’s national security. 

Besigye challenged the court’s jurisdiction since he is no longer a serving army officer, leading to him and his co-accused being remanded to Luzira Prison until December 2nd.

This incident follows the deportation of 36 members of Besigye’s FDC breakaway group from Kenya to Uganda in July this year, and are currently facing terrorism-related charges in court.

By Francis Lubega

21 Nov 2024

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