The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, has expressed deep concern over the continued detention of Dr. Kizza Besigye, Haji Obeid Lutale, and Eron Kiiza in Uganda.
“Uganda is a long-standing and much-valued member of the Commonwealth and has committed itself to the Commonwealth Charter, which upholds the values of human rights, good governance and the rule of law,” Scotland said in a statement.
“We are therefore saddened and deeply troubled by the continued detention of Dr Kizza Besigye, Haji Obeid Lutale and Eron Kiiza, which undermines the ruling of the Supreme Court of Uganda on 31 January 2025, and the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.”
However, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni defended the practice of trying civilians in the Court Martial, stating that it has been pivotal in maintaining peace and stability in Uganda.
“The law enabling civilian trials in the Court Martial was enacted in 2005 to combat armed criminals and terrorists,” Museveni explained.
“Civilian courts were overwhelmed with cases and could not swiftly handle the criminal activities of those using firearms to destabilize the country.”
Museveni argued that the Court Martial system is essential for ensuring peace in Uganda and that it has been successful in restoring order in regions like Karamoja.
“The practice of trying civilians in the Court Martial has helped to maintain peace and stability in Uganda,” Museveni said.
“It is essential for ensuring that those who use firearms to destabilize the country are held accountable.”
In response to the criticism, Museveni emphasized that the government is committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights.
“We are not for vengeance but the danger of the killers must be removed,” Museveni said.
“We are committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights.”
The Commonwealth Secretary-General urged the Ugandan authorities to ensure that Besigye receives the best possible medical care and called for the immediate release of those who have been improperly detained.
“I am also alarmed by reports regarding Dr Besigye’s health and urge the Ugandan authorities to ensure he receives the best possible medical care,” Scotland said.
“We call for the immediate release of those who have been improperly detained.”
The Commonwealth Secretariat stands ready to support and engage the Government of Uganda and all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution.
“The Commonwealth Secretariat stands ready to support and engage the Government of Uganda and all parties, including the opposition leaders and regional stakeholders, to work towards a peaceful resolution which protects the constitutional sovereignty of the country,” Scotland said.
