The Commonwealth has called for the immediate release of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, citing concerns over human rights violations and the suppression of democratic principles. Besigye, along with other detainees including Haji Obeid Lutale and lawyer Eron Kiiza, has remained in detention despite a Supreme Court ruling that deemed such trials unconstitutional.
In a statement, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland condemned Uganda’s continued disregard for the ruling, labeling it a threat to democracy and the rule of law. She emphasized that the detention of Besigye and his colleagues violates Uganda’s own legal framework and international human rights standards.
“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 stated.
The Supreme Court of Uganda, in a ruling delivered on January 31, 2025, determined that trying civilians in military courts for criminal offenses was unconstitutional. The court directed that such cases be transferred to civilian judicial systems. However, the government has ignored this directive, fueling concerns over judicial independence and respect for legal institutions.
Besigye’s situation has become more urgent as reports indicate that his health is deteriorating due to a hunger strike. The opposition leader has refused food for six days, leading to hospitalization at one point. Scotland urged the Ugandan authorities to provide the best possible medical care to Besigye and other detainees.
The Commonwealth’s strong stance underscores the growing international pressure on Uganda to uphold human rights and democratic values. Scotland expressed disappointment in Uganda’s actions, stating, “We are 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.”
As tensions rise over the detained leaders, Uganda faces increasing scrutiny from the international community. The Commonwealth’s intervention signals that global bodies are closely watching developments, expecting the Ugandan government to comply with its legal obligations and international commitments.
Scotland also reaffirmed the Commonwealth Secretariat’s willingness to support Uganda in resolving the situation peacefully, protecting the country’s constitutional sovereignty while ensuring justice for those unlawfully detained. She stressed the importance of restoring an inclusive and democratic political environment in line with the Commonwealth Charter.
With pressure mounting from the international community, the Ugandan government must now decide whether to heed the calls for justice or risk further diplomatic isolation. The coming days will be crucial in determining the country’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and human rights.
