Kenyan activists demand release of Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye

The demonstrators condemned President Yoweri Museveni's government, labeling it authoritarian and oppressive.

They delivered a petition to the National Assembly, urging the Kenyan government to take responsibility for Besigye’s alleged abduction and rendition before marching to the Ugandan Embassy, where they reiterated their demands for his release.

The protest commenced at Aga Khan Walk, where demonstrators carried banners and chanted slogans condemning Museveni’s rule and calling for Besigye’s immediate release.

Hussein Khalid, CEO of Vocal Africa, stated, "We believe the accusations against him are baseless. This is just another tactic by Museveni to suppress opposition voices."

KMPDU Secretary-General Davji Atellah highlighted Besigye’s past contributions to Kenya’s medical sector, saying, "Kizza Besigye is a doctor who previously worked at Aga Khan Hospital and Kenyatta National Hospital. We cannot stand by and allow this injustice to continue."

Lawyer Andrew Karamagi emphasized the broader implications of the case, stating, "Human rights issues are interconnected and indivisible. We are here in Nairobi to demand the immediate release of Kizza Besigye."

The activists proceeded to the National Assembly, where they presented their demands to Members of Parliament, urging the government and security agencies to be held accountable for Besigye’s alleged abduction and forcible return to Uganda. They also called on legislators to take a stand against human rights violations in Uganda.

Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan remarked, "We do not want an East African Community that is authoritarian in character. We want leadership that is people-centered."

Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo added, "If someone has violated the law, they must be prosecuted fairly and in accordance with due process."

The protesters then marched to the Ugandan Embassy on Riverside Drive, where they staged another demonstration. However, police officers blocked them from entering the embassy premises.

Kizza Besigye is currently detained at Luzira Prison in Uganda, facing treason charges for allegedly organizing fundraising meetings in Switzerland, Greece, and Kenya. Along with his aide, Obeid Lutaale, and lawyer, Eeron Kizza, he remains in custody, with reports indicating that his health is deteriorating due to a hunger strike.