President’s Office to Punish RDC for Demanding Besigye’s Release

A Resident District Commissioner in the Kigezi region is under investigation for demanding the unconditional release of opposition politician Dr. Kiiza Besigye. 

Dr. Besigye, the former presidential Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party president, is currently facing charges of treachery and illegal possession of ammunition and firearms, alongside Obeid Lutaale Kamulegeya. 

The duo was arrested in Nairobi, Kenya, in November 2024, and brought before the General Military court martial, sparking public outrage. 

Former Nakawa Division MP Michael Kabaziguruka challenged the trial in court, leading to a Supreme Court ruling that the army court has no mandate to try civilians. 

Public outrage intensified when a frail-looking Besigye was paraded before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrates’ court to face charges of inciting violence. Many members of the public repeatedly demanded his unconditional release. 

During a three-day capacity-building meeting for Resident District Commissioners and District Internal Security Officers from the Kigezi districts at White Horse Inn Kabale, Minister for Presidency Milly Babirye Babalanda said her office is handling a case of an RDC from the Kigezi region who appeared in the media demanding the immediate release of Besigye.

Babalanda expressed disappointment that an individual appointed by President Yoweri Museveni would openly demand Besigye’s release without considering the gravity and reasons for his arrest. She emphasized that she must meet the accused RDC face-to-face to understand the reasoning behind such an utterance. However, Babalanda declined to reveal the identity of the accused RDC, saying it may jeopardize the investigation.

Martha Asiimwe, Head RDC Office of the President, stated that such an utterance is indiscipline, and the RDC risks appearing before the rewards and sanctions committee. If found guilty, the RDC will be relieved of their duties. 

On Wednesday, Besigye appeared before the Civil Division court presided over by Judge Dr. Douglas Singiza. 

Through his lawyers, Besigye requested an order for his release and the release of Lutale, arguing that they were being held in prison without valid remand warrants. Lawyers led by Medard Lubega Sseggona argued that Besigye and Lutale were being held without criminal case numbers and were victims of indefinite detention.

Justice Singiza promised to deliver his judgment befroe the 25th of February.