A coalition of Ugandan and Kenyan activists has accused the Kenyan government of violating legal procedures in the transfer of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye to Uganda, where he remains in custody facing treason charges.
The activists, who spoke on Tuesday, expressed concern over Besigye’s deteriorating health and called for an independent investigation into his alleged abduction and transfer from Kenya to Uganda.
Besigye, a former personal physician to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, has been a prominent opposition figure for more than two decades and has repeatedly faced arrest and prosecution since challenging Museveni’s rule.
He was abducted in November 2024 while on a visit to Kenya and later appeared before a Ugandan court on treason-related charges. Authorities accused him of plotting a conspiracy against Museveni, who has governed Uganda for more than 40 years.
The activists alleged that Besigye’s transfer was carried out without following Kenya’s extradition procedures.
“The operation deliberately circumvented Kenya’s Extradition Act which requires a lawful request, arrest warrant, judicial proceedings and an opportunity to challenge extradition,” they said in a statement.
They announced plans for protests in Nairobi on Thursday, demanding accountability over Besigye’s transfer.
Kenya’s Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi acknowledged last year that Kenya had “cooperated with the Ugandan authorities” in transferring Besigye to Uganda.
Hussein Khalid of rights organisation Vocal Africa called for those responsible for the alleged rendition to be held accountable.
“We are asking those involved in this illegal rendition that has put Dr Besigye on his deathbed be addressed and those responsible be held accountable,” Khalid said.
The activists also demanded an independent investigation to determine who requested, authorised, facilitated and allegedly concealed Besigye’s transfer.
They urged the Kenyan government to use diplomatic and legal channels to secure his unconditional release and the withdrawal of the charges against him.
Besigye’s health has become a major concern since his detention. He has reportedly been taken to hospital four times, including after he fainted during a court hearing at the end of July and was admitted to intensive care.
According to his wife, Winnie Byanyima, Besigye was returned to prison on August 8 despite medical advice.
The activists also accused Uganda’s military chief and Museveni’s son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, of involvement in Besigye’s abduction and called for his suspension from his military position.
Human rights organisations have increasingly raised concerns over political repression in Uganda, alleging that opposition politicians, activists and lawyers have faced arrests and intimidation as the country prepares for its next electoral cycle.
