Commonwealth Secretary-General Calls for Immediate Release of Dr Kizza Besigye

LONDON – The Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, has expressed deep concern over the continued detention of Ugandan opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye and his associates, Haji Obeid Lutale and Eron Kiiza.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Secretary-General emphasised Uganda’s commitment to the Commonwealth Charter, which upholds human rights, good governance, and the rule of law.

“We are therefore saddened and deeply troubled by the continued detention of Dr Kizza Besigye, Haji Obeid Lutale and Eron Kiiza, which undermines the ruling of the Supreme Court of Uganda on 31 January 2025, and the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law,” the statement read.

Dr Besigye and Obeid Lutale were allegedly abducted in Nairobi, Kenya, on 16 November 2024, in violation of court orders. Their detention, according to the Secretary-General, raises concerns about Uganda’s adherence to legal norms and democratic values enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter.

“I am also alarmed by reports regarding Dr Besigye’s health and urge the Ugandan authorities to ensure he receives the best possible medical care. We call for the immediate release of those who have been improperly detained,” she added.

The Commonwealth Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to engaging with the Ugandan government, opposition leaders, and regional stakeholders to seek a peaceful resolution that upholds constitutional sovereignty.

“The Commonwealth has always had a relationship based on trust with Uganda and looks forward to the return of a more inclusive and democratic political environment aligned with the Commonwealth Charter,” the statement concluded.