The Uganda Prisons Service has responded to claims made by Dr. Kizza Besigye’s associates, particularly his visit from Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura, who alleged that Dr. Besigye was being denied food brought by his supporters during a prison visit.
Nyanjura stated on Friday that, during her visit, food items such as Posho, milk, millet flour, honey, cooking oil, rice, and Blue Band were brought for Dr. Besigye, but prison authorities rejected them. According to Nyanjura, Dr. Besigye was left with a choice to either eat the prison food or starve, further remarking that he might “die before the date set by Muhoozi,” referring to a set prison date.
However, Frank Baine, the Uganda Prisons Service spokesperson, sharply dismissed the allegations, calling them “outrageous.” Baine clarified that it was not true that food was being denied to Dr. Besigye, stating, “It is not true we can deny food to Dr. Kizza Besigye or any other prisoner.” He emphasized that the Prisons Service is experienced in its operations and adheres to the Prison Act, which mandates the provision of wholesome, quality food to all prisoners.
Baine further explained that while relatives may bring food for prisoners under specific conditions, the prison authorities are the ones who determine if food items are permissible. He noted that the Act and standing orders do not provide a right for visitors to bring food, but rather, this is a privilege subject to the discretion of the prison officer in charge.
The spokesperson also addressed the claim that the government might be attempting to harm Dr. Besigye in prison, stating that he had been imprisoned multiple times since 2005 without any harm. He accused those spreading such rumors of trying to distort facts.
Dr. Besigye, arrested in Kenya last year along with his aide Hajji Obeid Kamulegeya, was remanded to Luzira Prison by the General Court Martial on charges related to unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
