The son of veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye has made an emotional appeal to President Yoweri Museveni and Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, asking them to consider showing mercy and compassion towards his father as his health continues to raise concerns.
Adam Ampa Besigye said his appeal was not coming from a political position but from the pain of a son watching his father go through a difficult moment. He said seeing his father collapse during court proceedings was one of the most painful experiences he had ever witnessed.
In his heartfelt message, Ampa said that regardless of political differences, no child should have to watch their parent reach such a vulnerable state while facing legal battles.
“Today, my heart broke as I watched my father Kizza Besigye collapse in court,” Ampa said, adding that his father had dedicated many years of his life to serving Uganda.
He appealed to President Museveni and Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba to consider the humanitarian side of the situation and allow his father to regain his freedom so that he can receive proper care and spend time with his family.
Ampa said his family strongly believes that Dr. Besigye is innocent of the allegations against him and has never had intentions of harming President Museveni or 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 appeal comes after Dr. Besigye collapsed in court during proceedings related to charges he denies. His health condition has since become a major concern among his family members, supporters and political allies.
Ampa explained that his father’s condition should be looked at beyond politics, arguing that compassion and humanity should guide decisions involving the life and wellbeing of any Ugandan.
“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,” he said.
He further requested that his father be granted access to appropriate medical attention and all protections provided under the law.
According to Ampa, releasing his father on humanitarian grounds would send a powerful message about forgiveness, reconciliation and the importance of putting human life above political disagreements.
The young Besigye said he does not want to carry anger or hatred because of the political battles involving his family.
“As his son, I do not wish to inherit bitterness. I wish to see reconciliation,” he said.
He added that he hopes Uganda can reach a point where people from different political sides can look back and say that compassion prevailed over conflict.
The emotional appeal has attracted attention from different sections of society, with many people debating the balance between legal processes, political differences and humanitarian considerations.
Dr. Besigye has been one of Uganda’s most prominent opposition figures for decades and has contested presidential elections against President Museveni several times.
His supporters have repeatedly raised concerns about his health, treatment and legal situation, while authorities have maintained that legal processes must continue.
Ampa’s message comes at a time when many Ugandans are closely watching developments surrounding his father’s condition and awaiting further updates.
He urged leaders to consider the bigger picture and use the situation as an opportunity to promote unity rather than further division.
For Ampa, the issue is not about political victory or defeat, but about seeing his father treated with dignity and given a chance to recover.
He concluded his appeal by calling for compassion, understanding and reconciliation, saying that Uganda’s future depends on its ability to overcome political differences and embrace humanity.
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