The United Nations rights chief, Volker Turk, has called on the Ugandan government to release opposition leader Kizza Besigye following his apparent abduction in Kenya.
Turk demanded a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Besigye’s disappearance. He described the act as deeply concerning and called for accountability from the authorities.
“These abductions of opposition leaders and supporters must end,” Turk stated. He emphasized that such actions undermine the rights of Ugandans and harm the country’s reputation on the global stage.
Besigye, a prominent figure in Uganda’s opposition, has long been a vocal critic of the government. His apparent kidnapping in Kenya has sparked fears for his safety and raised alarm among international human rights groups.
In his statement, Turk also condemned Uganda’s practice of prosecuting civilians in military courts. This has become a growing concern for human rights defenders, who argue that such trials lack transparency and fairness.
The call for an investigation comes amid mounting tensions between Uganda’s government and opposition. The situation highlights the increasingly repressive political climate in the country, where dissent is often met with harsh retaliation.
The international community has urged Uganda to respect the rights of its citizens and ensure fair treatment for all, especially those who challenge the government. The fate of Kizza Besigye remains uncertain, but the UN’s demand for an investigation signals growing pressure on Uganda’s leadership to address human rights abuses.
