Besigye Free as Police Withdraw from His Home

Uganda Police have withdrawn their officers from the residence of opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye in Kasangati Town Council, Wakiso district.

Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Commissioner Crispin Kaheru confirmed the withdrawal on Wednesday.

He said the UHRC engaged security since the arrest of Besigye in regard to his house arrest that lasted six days.

The UHRC’s mandate is to protect and promote fundamental human rights and freedoms in Uganda for sustainable development.

On Tuesday, UHRC officials led by Kaheru visited Besigye at his home in Kasangati to assess his condition following reports of restrictions on his movement.

Kaheru said the Retired Colonel acknowledged the efforts of UHRC to fulfill its mandate of making human rights monitoring visits.

“We note that, following our intervention, security vacated his premises last night and he is now a free man,” Kaheru said.

Besigye’s aide, Ronald Muhinda, said the police and military left Besigye’s home deep in the night.

“Observation posts have been mounted at a distance with the same armed personnel and motorised facilities,” Muhinda said.

He added: “Defiance continues. No turning back. Besigye will move in Wakiso, Kampala and Uganda by defiance.”