Senior presidential adviser Gen. Salim Saleh has expressed optimism that efforts to resolve the case involving detained opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye could yield results within three to six months. Saleh made the remarks while addressing leaders of National Resistance Movement (NRM) parliamentary committees in Kapeeka. He discussed ongoing engagements involving Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale.
Saleh revealed that he had visited Besigye after learning that the opposition politician was unwell while in detention. He said Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba had tasked him with handling the matter. This development places Saleh at the centre of efforts to engage the detained opposition leader.
Although Saleh expressed confidence that progress could be made in the coming months, he did not provide specific details about the discussions or explain what steps would be required to achieve a resolution. His remarks come amid growing public interest in Besigye’s continued detention and the possibility of an understanding that could influence the course of his case.
Information and Communications Technology Minister Justine Lumumba recently confirmed in Parliament that Saleh was holding discussions with Besigye and Lutale. This provides further indication that engagements involving the accused individuals are taking place. However, it remains unclear whether the talks could lead to the withdrawal of charges, a change in the legal proceedings or another form of resolution.
Besigye, a former presidential candidate and long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni’s government, has been in detention since November 2024. He faces treason charges alongside Lutale, in a case that has remained a major subject of political and public debate. His continued imprisonment has also raised concerns about his health and access to medical care.
Saleh’s three-to-six-month projection could therefore become an important timeline to watch as efforts to engage the opposition leader continue. However, whether the discussions will produce a breakthrough remains uncertain, and the legal status of the case will depend on developments in the relevant proceedings.
The case has attracted national attention, with many awaiting a resolution. Gen. Saleh's involvement, as President Museveni's younger brother and head of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), could play a significant role in determining the outcome.
Key points
- Gen. Salim Saleh is optimistic about a possible breakthrough in Dr. Kizza Besigye's case within three to six months.
- Saleh has been engaging with Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale, in a bid to find a resolution.
- The case has raised concerns about Besigye's health and access to medical care while in detention.
