The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, has tasked Parliament’s Committee on Human Rights with visiting Luzira Prisons to assess whether Dr. Kizza Besigye is receiving treatment in accordance with standard prison procedures.
This directive was issued during Thursday’s parliamentary plenary session following concerns raised by opposition legislators.
They alleged that Dr. Besigye had been denied access to food from his family and opportunities for physical interaction with visitors.
“I have consulted with the chairperson of the Committee on Human Rights. Let the committee visit Dr. Besigye tomorrow and prepare a report to be presented on Tuesday. This will ensure that, during the debate on the government’s statement, we can also discuss the committee’s findings,” Rt. Hon. Tayebwa announced, prompting applause from the chamber.
The proposal to send the committee was initiated by Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa, who emphasized that Parliament would fulfill its duty by taking this step.
However, the Deputy Speaker cautioned against expanding the committee’s scope to include evaluating Dr. Besigye’s health or compelling prisons to permit private doctors chosen by his family to examine him.
This request had been made by Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju and Bukonjo West MP Atkins Katusabe.
“Honourable colleagues, we must acknowledge the limits of our authority. My mandate as Deputy Speaker does not extend to ordering that family-recommended doctors be granted access to him,” Tayebwa stated. He added that broadening the committee’s role could delay the timely submission of the report, which is due for presentation next Tuesday.
“The Committee on Human Rights includes members from both sides of the political divide. The best course of action is for the committee to visit tomorrow and provide us with their findings,” Tayebwa emphasized.
The Deputy Speaker also joined other MPs in offering prayers for Dr. Besigye. “Let’s pray for him; we all wish him the best,” he remarked.
Earlier, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa, had similarly led prayers for the incarcerated opposition figure.
Several MPs welcomed the directive, including Busiro East MP Ssegona Medard, who expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am very happy with your guidance—very happy.”
On Tuesday, the Attorney General is expected to present a separate report on Dr. Besigye, which will be debated alongside the findings from the Human Rights Committee.
