Activists Demand Answers Over Kizza Besigye’s Alleged Rendition

 Activists Demand Answers Over Kizza Besigye’s Alleged Rendition

Kenyan activists are planning demonstrations in Nairobi on Thursday, September 3, demanding answers over the alleged rendition of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye from Kenya to Uganda.

The activists said they will also call for Besigye’s immediate release, access to medical treatment and an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his alleged transfer.

The planned protest is expected to take place in Nairobi’s Central Business District, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Interior among the institutions the activists intend to target.

The demonstrations come amid renewed concerns over Besigye’s health and questions surrounding the circumstances of his transfer to Uganda.

Activists Cite Non-Refoulement Principle

The activists argued that Kenya should not have facilitated the transfer of an individual to a country where they believe he could face persecution, torture or other serious human rights violations.

They cited the international principle of non-refoulement, which generally protects individuals from being returned to places where they face a serious risk of persecution or other grave harm.

“It is the principle of non-refoulement that dictates a person is not supposed to be back to a country where they are going to face oppression, harassment and torture.”

The activists are demanding an independent and time-bound investigation to establish who allegedly requested, authorised and facilitated Besigye’s transfer.

“There must be an independent and time-bound investigation establishing who requested, authorised, facilitated and concealed Dr. Besigye’s rendition. All relevant communication, surveillance record, border records and operational orders must be preserved and disclosed.”

They also want accountability for officials they believe were involved in the alleged transfer.

Besigye’s Health Raises Concern

The planned protests come days after Besigye was reportedly transferred from Luzira Prison to a medical facility following a deterioration in his health.

His wife, Winnie Byanyima, said on Friday, August 28, that Besigye was taken to the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) along Entebbe Road.

Byanyima has previously expressed concern over his physical condition, saying he had become severely weak and experienced difficulties walking, speaking and performing basic activities.

The activists are demanding that Besigye receive appropriate medical treatment while also calling for his release.

They are further seeking compensation over what they describe as violations of his rights.

Questions Over Alleged Kenya Role

The activists’ demands have also focused on Kenya’s alleged involvement in Besigye’s transfer.

They said Kenyan authorities should explain how the opposition leader was allegedly taken out of the country and identify officials who may have been involved.

Human rights groups have also raised concerns over the treatment of individuals involved in Besigye’s legal defence.

Among those mentioned is former Kenyan Justice Minister Martha Karua, who human rights activists have alleged faced detention and deportation from Uganda while attempting to assist Besigye.

The activists have also called for accountability from Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, over alleged comments concerning Besigye’s fate in detention.

Nairobi Businesses Brace for Protests

The planned demonstrations could disrupt normal business operations in Nairobi’s CBD if they proceed.

Previous protests in the city have resulted in temporary business closures, traffic disruptions and confrontations between demonstrators and police.

Police had not officially confirmed the planned demonstrations at the time of the activists’ announcement.

Under Kenya’s public-order framework, organisers of public demonstrations are required to notify authorities in advance.

Besigye’s Long Detention

Besigye has remained in detention in Uganda since his arrest and transfer from Kenya in November 2024.

He was subsequently charged with serious offences, including treason, and has remained in custody as his legal team continues efforts to secure his freedom.

His case has attracted regional and international attention, particularly over concerns about his health and allegations surrounding his transfer from Kenya.

The planned

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 Activists Demand Answers Over Kizza Besigye’s Alleged Rendition