Deputy Speaker Tayebwa orders probe into Dr. Besigye’s prison conditions
The proposal for the visit was initially raised by Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa, who emphasized that Parliament would fulfill its duties by taking this action.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, has directed the Committee on Human Rights to visit Luzira Prisons and assess whether Dr. Kizza Besigye is being treated in accordance with standard prison protocols.
This directive, issued during Thursday’s parliamentary plenary, followed allegations from opposition MPs that Dr. Besigye was being denied family-provided food and 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, so that during the debate on the government’s statement, we can also discuss the committee’s findings,” Tayebwa stated. His decision was met with applause from members of the House.
The proposal for the visit was initially raised by Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa, who emphasized that Parliament would fulfill its duties by taking this action.
However, Tayebwa cautioned against overstepping the committee’s mandate. He rejected requests by Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju and Bukonjo West MP Atkins Katusabe to include directives for private doctors chosen by Besigye’s family to examine him. Tayebwa argued that such actions could delay the committee’s report, which is due for discussion on Tuesday.
“Honourable colleagues, we hold positions of responsibility and power, but there are limits to our authority. My authority here stops at a certain point. I cannot order that doctors recommended by the family be allowed to see him,” Tayebwa said.
He added that the committee, which includes both government and opposition members, is best placed to provide a balanced report. “The best course of action is for the committee to visit tomorrow and present their findings to us,” Tayebwa explained.
Tayebwa also joined other MPs in offering prayers for Dr. Besigye. “Let’s pray for him; we all wish him the best,” he said. Earlier, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa, also prayed for Besigye during the plenary session.
Several legislators praised the Deputy Speaker’s decision. “I am very happy with your guidance, very happy,” said Busiro East MP Medard Ssegona.
The Attorney General is expected to present a separate report on Dr. Besigye during Tuesday’s plenary, which will be discussed alongside the findings from the Human Rights Committee.
