Kizza Besigye Pleads With Uganda to Let Him Attend Raila’s Burial: “If Museveni Has Any Humanity Left…”

Kizza Besigye Pleads With Uganda to Let Him Attend Raila’s Burial: “If Museveni Has Any Humanity Left…”

Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye has made a heartfelt appeal to his government, begging to attend the state funeral of his longtime friend, Raila Odinga, in Kenya.

Besigye’s request came on Friday as Kenya prepared to bid farewell to Raila, who died on October 15. The lawmaker argued that his absence from the funeral would signify a loss of both personal and political integrity.

“I am begging — I be allowed to attend the funeral of my friend Raila Odinga in Kenya,” Besigye stated.
“If Museveni has any humanity left in him, he should let me attend the burial of Raila. Then he can kill me afterwards, and I will sleep peacefully.”

This raw, emotional plea underscores the deep bond between Besigye and Raila. It also highlights potential obstacles that prevent the Ugandan leader from crossing borders even in moments of mourning.

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Friendship Woven in Struggle

Raila Odinga and Kizza Besigye’s paths have long intersected. Both figures earned reputation as uncompromising champions of democracy in East Africa. Their bond deepened over years of shared struggle and solidarity.

Besigye’s call to Museveni is not just personal but symbolic — a stand for democratic ideals and cross-border respect among African leaders.

“Let me say goodbye,” he pleaded during his statement.

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Barriers Beyond Borders

Besigye’s plea also sheds light on the political constraints he faces. The Ugandan government has historically restricted his travel, citing security concerns. His ability to move freely outside Uganda remains contested.

His emotional message came at a time when his party and supporters are watching closely, hoping the government will show the grace to allow a statesman’s funeral attendance.

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Kenya Prepares for a Grand Farewell

While Besigye fights bureaucratic walls, Kenya is deep in preparation for its national mourning. Flags fly at half-mast, public buildings stand solemn, and citizens across counties await the solemn send-off.

President William Ruto and regional leaders will lead the state funeral in Kisumu County, Raila’s home domain. The event promises to draw heads of state, civil society figures, and the public into one moment of national solemnity.

Besigye’s absence, if confirmed, will perhaps add a poignant note to the funeral — the silence of a friend who could not attend in person.

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Legacy of Unity and Loss

Besigye’s plea is not just about personal grief. It reflects a broader narrative about friendship, respect, and the duty of governments to honor democratic values.

His words echo beyond Kenya and Uganda, resonating across Africa with leaders and citizens who see in Raila’s death a loss to the region.

“Then he can kill me afterwards, and I will sleep peacefully,” he said.

Those words ring not only as an expression of personal sorrow, but also as a charge: to let humanity guide politics when leaders pass.

ALSO READ: Ruth Odinga Slams Kenyan Youth Mourning Raila: “He Died Knowing You Preferred Him Dead”

Kizza Besigye Pleads With Uganda to Let Him Attend Raila’s Burial: “If Museveni Has Any Humanity Left…”