“Even Though You Led Us To Win The War, You Can’t Continue Applying military war tactics on those who disagree with you” Besigye Kizza’s Blasts Museveni
Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS and wife of Dr. Kizza Besigye, has called on President Museveni to engage with dissenting voices, stressing that disagreement does not equate to being an enemy of Uganda.
Speaking to journalists at her home in Kasangati-Wakiso on Saturday, Byanyima voiced her concerns regarding the arrest of Dr. Besigye, stating that the charges against him were fabricated by the regime, a tactic they have used in the past.
A visibly upset Winnie Byanyima reminded President Museveni of their shared history, recalling how he had once convinced them to join his struggle for justice and democracy, a fight that put their lives at risk. She expressed regret that they are now being labeled as enemies.
“To President Museveni, I want to say directly: Many people have disagreed with you, and that is not a crime. You led us to win the war, but you cannot continue applying military tactics on those who oppose you forever. That is wrong,” Byanyima stated.
She further urged the President to seek peace and open a dialogue with political opponents. “When you brought the army into politics, did it help? No. So I ask you to please listen and seek peaceful solutions, even with those you disagree with. There are many valuable opinions everywhere. Many NRM leaders, including myself, left because there was no room for discussion, not because we are bad people,” Byanyima added.
Byanyima emphasized that Dr. Besigye’s commitment to Uganda and his family should not be punished due to his efforts to improve the country.
Having visited her husband and co-accused Hajji Obed Kamulegeya at Luzira prison on Friday, Byanyima reported that while they are in good condition, they are worried about being tried in a military court, fearing it may not offer a fair trial.
She did not believe that the arrests were directly linked to the upcoming 2026 General Elections, but firmly stated that aspiring to contest an election should not make someone a traitor or an enemy of the state.
Byanyima also called for justice for her husband and his co-accused, highlighting the trauma caused to Kamulegeya’s family, particularly his son in the USA, who is deeply distressed by the arrest on what she believes are fabricated charges.
Dr. Besigye and Kamulegeya were abducted in Nairobi, Kenya, where they had attended a book launch by opposition leader Martha Karua. They were held at Makindye Military Barracks before being presented in a court martial on Wednesday, charged with possession of firearms and remanded to Luzira Prison until December 2.