In a developing story surrounding the incarceration of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, his lawyer, Erias Lukwago, has raised serious concerns over the Prisons Department’s treatment of his client. Lukwago alleges that prison authorities have implemented new restrictive directives prohibiting Besigye from receiving food donations brought by supporters and well-wishers.
According to Lukwago, a delegation advocating for Besigye’s welfare recently delivered food items to Luzira Prison, where the veteran politician is being held. However, the prison authorities reportedly denied the handover, instructing Besigye to either consume prison-issued meals or go without food altogether. This development has sparked outrage among supporters, who view it as a targeted act of deprivation aimed at breaking his spirit.
“We condemn these inhumane actions,” Lukwago said in a statement. “These restrictions violate not only Dr. Besigye’s rights but also basic human dignity. The choice between eating substandard prison food or starving is unacceptable.”
The Uganda Prisons Service is yet to issue an official response, while human rights organizations have expressed concern, calling for an immediate investigation into the matter.