Adam Ampa Besigye, the son of veteran opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye, has appealed to President Yoweri Museveni and Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba to consider releasing his father on humanitarian grounds, warning that Uganda risks losing one of its most recognized political figures as his health continues to deteriorate.
Ampa made the emotional appeal after his father collapsed during court proceedings, an incident that sparked widespread concern among Ugandans, political leaders and human rights activists who have been following Besigye’s health situation.
In an open letter addressed to President Museveni and Gen Muhoozi, Ampa said watching his father collapse in court was one of the most painful moments he had ever experienced as a son.
“Today, my heart broke as I watched my father Kizza Besigye collapse in court,” Ampa wrote, explaining that regardless of political differences, no child should witness their parent reach such a condition while facing legal proceedings.
He said his father had dedicated much of his life to serving Uganda and that his current situation required compassion and consideration beyond political disagreements.
Ampa emphasized that his appeal was not coming from a political position but from the perspective of a son worried about the wellbeing of his father.
“I write not as a politician, but as a son,” he said, urging the country’s top leadership to consider Besigye’s age, health condition and humanitarian concerns surrounding his continued detention.
The opposition leader collapsed in court after objecting to the continuation of proceedings in his case, particularly over the appointment of state-funded lawyers to represent him.
Besigye had reportedly insisted that he should be allowed to choose his own legal representation, arguing that the court could not impose lawyers on him without his consent.
Before collapsing, witnesses said Besigye repeatedly protested against the proceedings, raising concerns about how the case was being handled.
Following the incident, he was taken for medical attention as family members and supporters raised concerns about his condition.
Ampa said his family believes his father is innocent of the allegations against him and has never intended to harm President Museveni or members of his family.
“My family firmly believes he is innocent of the allegations against him and has never sought to harm you or your family,” he stated.
The young Besigye further warned that the country could lose an important political figure if his father’s health continues to worsen.
“My father’s health continues to deteriorate. Uganda risks losing not only one of its most recognized political figures but also an opportunity to demonstrate that justice is stronger than political rivalry,” Ampa said.
He appealed to the authorities to ensure that his father receives proper medical care and all protections provided under the law.
According to Ampa, releasing Besigye on humanitarian grounds would demonstrate compassion and help promote reconciliation in a country that has experienced years of political disagreements.
He said Uganda’s history would remember leaders who chose humanity and understanding during difficult moments.
“As his son, I do not wish to inherit bitterness. I wish to see reconciliation,” Ampa wrote.
He expressed hope that Ugandans from different political backgrounds would one day look back and appreciate moments when compassion prevailed over conflict.
The appeal has since attracted public attention, with many Ugandans debating the balance between legal processes, political differences and humanitarian considerations.
Neither President Museveni’s office nor the Uganda People’s Defence Forces had publicly responded to Ampa’s appeal at the time of reporting.
Dr Kizza Besigye and his co-accused Obed Lutale deny charges related to allegations of involvement in activities aimed at overthrowing the government, maintaining their innocence as the legal process continues.
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