Commonwealth Secretary-General Calls for Immediate Release of Detained Ugandan Opposition Leaders

In a poignant statement released today, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, expressed profound concern over the continued detention of prominent Ugandan opposition figures Dr. Kizza Besigye, Haji Obeid Lutale, and Eron Kiiza. The statement highlights significant implications for Uganda’s adherence to the principles enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter, particularly those concerning human rights, good governance, and the rule of law.

Dr. Besigye and Lutale were reportedly abducted in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, an incident that has raised alarms about the Ugandan government’s commitment to judicial authority and democratic principles. The Secretary-General noted that their detention contradicts a Supreme Court ruling issued on January 31, 2025, which had called for their release.

“We are therefore saddened and deeply troubled by the continued detention of Dr. Kizza Besigye, Haji Obeid Lutale and Eron Kiiza,” said Scotland. “Their ongoing imprisonment undermines the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law that Uganda has pledged to uphold as a member of the Commonwealth.”

Scotland urged the Ugandan authorities to provide Dr. Besigye with necessary medical care amid reports concerning his health condition. “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,” she stated, emphasizing the international community’s role in monitoring the situation closely.

The Secretary-General reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s commitment to supporting Uganda in navigating these turbulent political waters. “The Commonwealth Secretariat stands ready to support and engage the Government of Uganda and all parties, including opposition leaders and regional stakeholders, to work towards a peaceful resolution which protects the constitutional sovereignty of the country,” she asserted.

Scotland concluded her statement by underscoring the importance of fostering trust between Uganda and the Commonwealth. “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,” she said.

As international scrutiny intensifies, many are left wondering how Uganda’s government will respond to these calls for action and whether it will honor its commitments to uphold human rights and democratic values. The situation remains fluid, with widespread calls for transparency and justice echoing both within Uganda and across the globe.