Crispin Kaheru, a Member of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), has responded to Yusuf Serunkuma's open letter to Gen. Salim Saleh, published in The Observer on October 28, 2026. Kaheru, a known political theorist, disagrees with Serunkuma's conclusions on reconciliation efforts for Dr. Kizza Besigye's detention. While acknowledging Serunkuma's concerns about justice, Kaheru believes his friend's arguments deserve more rigorous intellectual examination.
Serunkuma's letter raises legitimate questions about Dr. Besigye's detention but mistakenly equates reconciliation efforts with an admission of wrongdoing. Kaheru argues that this approach turns an institutional question into a personal indictment of Gen. Saleh. He emphasizes that demanding accountability does not have to make goodwill an offense. Serunkuma also criticizes the role of religious leaders in mediation, labeling them "emasculated" and "spineless."
Kaheru defends the role of faith leaders, citing their involvement in mediating conflicts through forums like the Acholi Religious Leaders' Peace Initiative and the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda. He notes that these leaders offer a platform for opposing sides to engage without losing face. While agreeing that Dr. Besigye, his family, and lawyers should be directly involved in negotiations, Kaheru argues that dialogue often begins with intermediaries building confidence before substantive negotiations can occur.
The response also addresses Serunkuma's interpretation of reconciliation efforts as evidence that the state cannot sustain its case against Dr. Besigye. Kaheru distinguishes between criminal responsibility, determined through evidence and judicial proceedings, and political reconciliation, which addresses relationships and grievances. He emphasizes that an invitation to dialogue is neither an admission of prosecutorial failure nor proof of innocence.
Kaheru critiques Serunkuma's argument that disputed intelligence reports and allegations of fabricated evidence undermine the prosecution's case. He stresses that allegations against specific officers do not establish that every investigation involving the intelligence community is fraudulent. Intelligence, he notes, is not proof of guilt, and allegations of misconduct require evidence to be substantiated.
The response also targets Serunkuma's personal attack on Gen. Saleh, calling him a co-president and demanding a televised confession. Kaheru argues that this approach is misplaced, as Gen. Saleh is neither the court trying Dr. Besigye nor the constitutional authority responsible for prosecution. He emphasizes that accountability must follow evidence, institutional mandates, and identifiable conduct, not political proximity.
Kaheru concludes by highlighting the humanitarian imperative in the situation, stressing that Dr. Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale are entitled to appropriate medical care, access to counsel, and fair, timely proceedings. He urges that their welfare must not become a bargaining chip in negotiations. Ultimately, Kaheru advocates for a negotiated release, arguing that it would be a defeat for no one and a demonstration of the country's ability to prioritize its values over grudges.
Key points
- Crispin Kaheru offers a differing perspective on Yusuf Serunkuma's open letter to Gen. Salim Saleh regarding reconciliation efforts for Dr. Kizza Besigye's detention.
- Kaheru defends the role of religious leaders in mediation and distinguishes between criminal responsibility and political reconciliation.
- He critiques Serunkuma's personal attack on Gen. Saleh and emphasizes the humanitarian imperative in the situation.
