Besigye, a long-time critic of Museveni and a former personal doctor to the president, has been in detention since November 2024.
His continued custody has caused anger among his supporters, especially residents of Rukungiri District, where he comes from. Many have accused the government of holding him beyond constitutional limits.
Speaking on behalf of the president, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa addressed residents in Rukungiri on Saturday, December 20, 2025.
Tayebwa said Museveni regrets that Besigye remains in detention for so long, but insisted that the delay is not the fault of the Executive or the Judiciary.
According to Tayebwa, Besigye’s legal team has written more than ten letters to the courts asking judges not to begin the trial.
He said each time the case is about to move forward, new legal issues are raised, making it difficult for judges to proceed.
“I am not happy with the continued detention of your son, Besigye,” Tayebwa said, quoting Museveni.
“I know you are also not happy. The government is ready, and the courts are ready, but his lawyers keep frustrating the process.”
Museveni also dismissed claims that he is personally targeting Besigye. He reminded the public that they share a long history dating back to the bush war that brought the current government to power.
“There is nothing personal between me and Besigye,” Museveni said.
“He is my friend, and we fought together. I am concerned about his health, but nobody is above the law. If someone commits a crime, they must answer to the law.”
Besigye is facing treason-related charges. Tayebwa explained that releasing him before trial would create the impression that he was arrested without reason.
He urged Besigye’s lawyers to allow the court process to continue so the matter can be resolved quickly.
ICT Minister Chris Baryomunsi also weighed in, saying the Judiciary in Uganda operates independently and is not controlled by the president.
He stressed that Museveni does not have the power to release a suspect who is already before the courts.
“The president did not arrest Besigye, and he cannot release him,” Baryomunsi said. “Only the courts have that authority.”
Security Minister Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi, who also comes from Rukungiri, recalled that Museveni had pardoned Besigye about 15 years ago after local leaders appealed to him.
Muhwezi said a similar appeal could be made again, but only after the legal process is completed.
Pressure has continued to grow as Uganda prepares for elections scheduled for January 15, 2026.
Many residents in Rukungiri argue that Besigye has been denied bail unfairly and that his detention is politically motivated.
Meanwhile, Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, expressed disappointment after her husband was denied bail even after spending 180 days in prison.
She appealed to Museveni to ensure justice not only for Besigye but also for other political prisoners.
Byanyima said her call is not for special treatment, but for fairness and respect for the rule of law.
She added that political opponents should be allowed to express their views peacefully without fear of long-term detention.
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