Kizza Besigye Allegedly Abducted After Nairobi Event, Family Demands Release

Ugandan Opposition Leader Kizza Besigye Allegedly Abducted After Nairobi Event

Prominent Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye has reportedly gone missing, with claims of his abduction during the launch of NARC-Kenya leader Martha Karua’s book in Nairobi on Saturday. Concerns over his whereabouts have sparked outcry from his family and supporters.

Disappearance in Nairobi

Besigye was last seen at an apartment on Riverside Drive, Nairobi’s Westlands estate, after attending a meeting with unidentified individuals. Reports suggest he may have been taken to a military jail in Kampala, Uganda.

Wife Demands His Release

Winnie Byanyima, Besigye’s wife, has called for his immediate release, accusing Ugandan authorities of unlawfully detaining him. Taking to social media, she said:

“I request the government of Uganda to release my husband Dr. Kizza Besigye… He was kidnapped last Saturday while in Nairobi for Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch. I am reliably informed that he is in a military jail in Kampala.”

She questioned why Besigye, a civilian, is being held in a military facility.

A History of Activism

Dr. Besigye is a staunch critic of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, despite initially being his ally. The fallout began in 1999, when Besigye accused Museveni’s government of abandoning democratic ideals. Since then, Besigye has contested presidential elections in 2001, 2006, 2011, and 2016, frequently alleging electoral fraud.

His political journey has been fraught with arrests, charges of treason, and accusations of incitement. Besigye’s activism stems from a long career in public service, including his role as a senior military officer and Museveni’s personal physician before their split.

Growing Outrage

The alleged abduction raises broader questions about freedom and democracy in Uganda, with supporters and human rights groups demanding accountability. The situation remains under scrutiny as pressure mounts for Besigye’s release.