Veteran Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye has been charged with treason in a civilian court after his controversial case was transferred from a military tribunal. Treason is a capital offence in Uganda and if found guilty the 68-year-old cold be sentenced to death.

The Commonwealth called on Tuesday for Uganda, a member of the 56-nation group, to release opposition politician Kizza Besigye, saying his detention undermined democracy and human rights.

Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye, who went on a hunger strike last week, has been rushed to hospital after his health deteriorated, said an allied lawmaker and a local television broadcaster.

Human rights activists, lawyers and medical practitioners in East Africa called on the Ugandan government Tuesday to release opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who has spent the past three months in military detention.

Kizza Besigye, a former ally turned rival of longtime President Yoweri Museveni, went on a hunger strike Feb. 10 in protest at his detention

Ugandan opposition leader and four-time presidential candidate Kizza Besigye appears in a civilian court in Kampala, Uganda Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Hajarah Nalwadda)

A prominent opposition figure jailed in Uganda for allegedly threatening state security is unwell and in need of urgent medical care, his attorney said Thursday. Four-time presidential candidate Kizza Besigye,

Uganda has reversed a controversial plan to hold a military trial for a prominent opposition leader due to his failing health. Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi announced late on Sunday that Kizza Besigye would have his case transferred to a civilian court.

The High Court has dismissed an application seeking the unconditional release of four-time presidential candidate Dr Kizza Besigye and his aide, Hajj Obeid Lutale, from Luzira Prison, due to their ongoing treason case at the lower court.