Byanyima criticizes Museveni’s regime over husband’s prosecution

The wife of Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye has condemned his ongoing trial as a “sham,” alleging political motives.

Besigye, a former ally and physician to President Yoweri Museveni, now faces charges of treason in a military court.

His wife, Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, claims Besigye was abducted during a November trip to Kenya and prosecuted alongside Obeid Lutale.

The charges carry the death penalty, fueling accusations of judicial manipulation.

One of Besigye’s lawyers was jailed for nine months when the trial resumed earlier this month. Byanyima expressed her outrage on X, formerly Twitter, stating, “The military court is a travesty of justice.

The accusers and judges are President Museveni and his son.”

Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Museveni’s son and head of Uganda’s armed forces, has stoked controversy with incendiary posts online.

On Thursday, he declared Besigye would be hanged on Uganda’s Heroes’ Day, June 9, sparking public outcry.

Byanyima responded defiantly, saying, “I will honor a true hero of Uganda and Africa. The struggle for justice will endure.”

International concern over Uganda’s suppression of opposition voices has grown, particularly ahead of the 2026 presidential elections. In November, the UN and human rights groups warned of escalating political persecution.

As the trial continues, Uganda’s political landscape remains tense, with critics denouncing an increasingly authoritarian regime.

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