Kenyan activists are planning demonstrations in Nairobi over the alleged abduction and transfer of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye from Kenya to Uganda.
The activists said they will hold protests on Thursday, September 3, targeting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
They are demanding Besigye’s immediate release, access to proper medical care and compensation over what they describe as an unlawful transfer.
The activists also want an independent investigation to establish who requested, authorised and facilitated Besigye’s alleged rendition from Kenya to Uganda.
They have called for relevant communication, surveillance records, border records and operational orders linked to the incident to be preserved and made public.
The group argues that Kenya should not transfer a person to a country where they could face persecution or serious human-rights violations. They have accused the Kenyan government of playing a role in Besigye’s transfer.
Besigye was reportedly taken from Nairobi in November 2024 and transferred to Uganda, where he was later charged with treason. His case has remained a major human-rights concern, particularly as his health has deteriorated.
On August 28, Besigye was taken from Luzira Prison to a hospital after his health worsened. His wife, Winnie Byanyima, said he had become severely weak and was struggling with basic movement and speech.
The activists have also raised concerns about the treatment of people involved in Besigye’s legal defence. They cited the detention and deportation of former Kenyan Justice Minister Martha Karua and legal troubles faced by other members of his defence team.
They are further calling for accountability over alleged remarks attributed to Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, concerning Besigye.
The planned demonstrations could affect businesses and transport in Nairobi’s CBD. However, police had not officially confirmed the protests at the time of the report.
The activists maintain that only an independent investigation can establish what happened to Besigye and determine whether Kenyan or Ugandan officials were involved in his transfer.