UGANDA: Commonwealth Demands Detained Besigye’s Immediate Release
The Commonwealth has voiced great concern about the continued arrest of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, as well as other inmates like Haji Obeid Lutale and lawyer Eron Kiiza.
According to Secretary-General Patricia Scotland, the arrest violates Uganda’s Supreme Court order and poses a threat to democratic and human rights norms.
On January 31, the Supreme Court declared that the trial of civilians before military courts in criminal proceedings is unconstitutional and that such cases should be transferred to ordinary courts, although this decision has since been ignored.
“We call for the immediate release of those who have been improperly detained. Along with the international community, we will continue to monitor the situation,” Scotland said.
Scotland expressed concern over Besigye’s health and encouraged Ugandan authorities to ensure he receives the best possible medical care.
Besigye has been on a hunger strike for six days, and his health has deteriorated, requiring hospitalization at some point.
Their ongoing detention has raised severe concerns about Uganda’s commitment to the rule of law, which is a major pillar of the Commonwealth Charter and principles.
We are deeply troubled by the continued detention of Dr Kizza Besigye, Haji Obeid Lutale and Eron Kiiza, which undermines the ruling of the Supreme Court of #Uganda and the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
— Patricia Scotland KC (@PScotlandCSG) February 18, 2025
Read my statement: https://t.co/sUNYlBGvMP
“We are therefore saddened and deeply troubled by the continued detention of Kizza Besigye, Haji Obeid Lutale and Eron Kiiza, which undermines the ruling of the Supreme Court of Uganda on January 31, 2025, and the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law,” Scotland said.
The Secretary-General reaffirmed appeals for the immediate release of those wrongfully incarcerated, stating that the international community would continue to closely follow the situation.
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Scotland also offered the support of the Commonwealth Secretariat to assist Uganda in working toward a peaceful resolution that maintains the country’s constitutional sovereignty.
“The Commonwealth has always had a relationship based on trust with Uganda,” she said.
“We look forward to the return of a more inclusive and democratic political environment aligned with the Commonwealth Charter.”
As tensions rise surrounding the imprisoned leaders, the Commonwealth’s intervention signifies continued international pressure on Uganda to preserve human rights and justice ideals as the world watches the events unfold.
UGANDA: Commonwealth Demands Detained Besigye’s Immediate Release
