Opposition Leaders Unite to Demand Justice for Dr. Kizza Besigye and Sheikh Obed Kamulegeya

In a rare show of solidarity, opposition leaders from across Uganda's political spectrum convened a joint press conference at Parliament today to denounce what they termed as “trumped-up charges” against political activist Dr. Kizza Besigye and cleric Sheikh Obed Kamulegeya. The leaders called for the immediate dropping of these charges and pledged to resist the continued trial of civilians in military courts, which they described as unconstitutional and oppressive.

Key figures at the press conference included National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), People’s Front for Transition (PFF) President Erias Lukwago, Conservative Party (CP) President Hon. Ken Lukyamuzi, and the National Coordinator of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), Major General(Rtd) Mugisha Muntu. Their joint presence underscored the urgency of the issue and the need for collective action against what they perceive as systemic injustice in Uganda.

Speaking at the event, Kyagulanyi expressed dismay at the continued persecution of opposition leaders and critical voices, stating, “The charges against Dr. Kizza Besigye and Sheikh Obed Kamulegeya are not just a personal attack on them but a broader assault on democracy and justice in Uganda.”

Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, a seasoned lawyer and opposition stalwart, condemned the use of military tribunals to prosecute civilians, describing the practice as a violation of constitutional rights. “Military courts have no jurisdiction over civilians. This is a blatant abuse of power designed to silence dissent,” Lukwago asserted.

Dr. Kizza Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and a leading figure in Uganda’s pro-democracy movement, has faced numerous arrests and legal battles over the years. Similarly, Sheikh Obed Kamulegeya, a prominent Muslim cleric, has been vocal about issues affecting the Muslim community and governance in Uganda. Both men have been accused of inciting violence and engaging in activities deemed subversive by the government—a claim their supporters dismiss as politically motivated.

Hon. Ken Lukyamuzi decried the government’s pattern of targeting high-profile opposition figures to stifle free speech and political organization. “This is a deliberate attempt to intimidate those who dare to speak truth to power,” he said, adding that such actions erode public trust in the justice system.

The leaders announced plans to take coordinated action against the use of military courts to try civilians. Major General(Rtd) Mugisha Muntu emphasized the need for legal and civic resistance, stating, “We cannot stand by as the rule of law is trampled upon. We will use every available avenue—legal, political, and grassroots mobilization—to ensure justice prevails.”

Among the proposed actions is a nationwide sensitization campaign to educate Ugandans about their constitutional rights and the dangers of military overreach. The opposition also plans to petition regional and international human rights bodies to put pressure on the Ugandan government to uphold the rule of law.

The press conference comes at a time when the Ugandan government is facing increasing criticism over human rights violations and shrinking democratic space. The continued trial of civilians in military courts has drawn condemnation from local and international human rights organizations, which argue that such practices undermine the principles of fair trial and judicial independence.

The opposition leaders called on all Ugandans, regardless of political affiliation, to join the fight against injustice. “This is not just about opposition leaders; it is about protecting the rights of every Ugandan,” Kyagulanyi said in his concluding remarks.

The press conference has sparked widespread debate on social media and in political circles, with many Ugandans expressing support for the opposition’s stance. However, government spokespersons have yet to issue a response to the accusations raised during the presser.

As the opposition gears up for a united front, the coming weeks could see increased political activity and pressure on the government to address these concerns. The spotlight now shifts to the judiciary and military tribunal to determine the fate of Dr. Besigye and Sheikh Kamulegeya, as well as the broader implications for Uganda’s democratic landscape.

This joint initiative signals a critical moment in Uganda's opposition politics, with leaders setting aside ideological differences to confront what they view as a shared threat to justice and democracy. The outcome of their efforts will likely have far-reaching implications for the country's political future.