Kizza Besigye Collapses in Kampala Court Amid Treason Trial

Besigye was rushed to Mulago National Referral Hospital immediately following the collapse, which occurred during his ongoing trial. The incident has intensified scrutiny of the legal maneuvers employed by the government of President Yoweri Museveni, who has held power for decades amid persistent allegations of political persecution.

Since his detention began in late 2024, supporters and human rights advocates have labeled the treason case a targeted crackdown on dissent. While the administration in Kampala has remained silent regarding the medical emergency, the health scare has reignited public debate over the treatment of political opponents under Museveni’s rule. Byanyima, who currently serves as the head of UNAIDS, broke the news of her husband’s state on social media, drawing international attention to the fragility of the opposition leader's situation while in state custody.