Ugandan opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye has been transferred from Luzira Prison to JCRC Hospital after his health reportedly deteriorated, with his wife Winnie Byanyima renewing calls for him to receive treatment in Geneva, Switzerland.
According to Byanyima, prison authorities moved Besigye to the Joint Clinical Research Centre after dark on Friday, August 28, 2026.
She said the former presidential candidate remains in a weak condition and is struggling with basic activities.
“He is still very weak. He struggles to walk, speak, write or even hold anything steadily,” Byanyima said.
The UNAIDS Executive Director renewed her appeal for authorities to allow Besigye to travel to Geneva, where she wants him to receive further medical care while surrounded by his family.
Besigye’s health has been a major concern since he collapsed during his treason trial at the High Court in Kampala on July 29. He was subsequently treated at Mulago National Referral Hospital before being returned to Luzira Prison.
A medical assessment by Mulago specialists on August 16 reportedly found that Besigye remained alert and able to understand questions, although he could not speak or write normally.
His deteriorating health has also affected his ongoing treason case, with the court previously directing prison authorities to provide a medical report after he failed to attend proceedings.
Besigye is facing treason charges alongside Hajji Obeid Lutale and Capt Denis Oola. Prosecutors accuse them of plotting to overthrow President Yoweri Museveni’s government.
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