Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye has now spent a full year in detention, a milestone that has renewed concerns about political freedoms and the treatment of opposition figures ahead of the country’s next elections.

Speaking to Rise and Shine, Dennis Beru, journalist and team leader at Grassroot Journalism Kenya, said: “It’s now one year since Besigye and his aide were arrested. Their prolonged incarceration, stalled investigations and rejected bail applications have intensified scrutiny of Uganda’s treatment of opposition figures.”

Besigye and his aide face charges relating to national security and the alleged unlawful possession of firearms. Supporters argue that the case is politically motivated, highlighting ongoing fears over the suppression of dissent in Uganda.

Despite calls for his release, the High Court recently rejected Besigye’s bail application, citing concerns that his prominent position in society could interfere with ongoing investigations.

–ChannelAfrica–