Besigye, 69, has been held in Luzira Maximum Security Prison in Kampala for over a year following his arrest in Kenya and subsequent extradition to Uganda on charges including treason allegations his family and allies reject as politically motivated.
Byanyima told Reuters that Besigye’s health took a sharp downturn after he fell ill suffering from a high fever, severe stomach pain, dehydration, intense leg pain and extreme weakness.
She said he has difficulty walking, eats very little and is struggling with basic movement symptoms that have sparked deep alarm.
The opposition stalwart’s condition was serious enough that his personal doctor was called in for tests.
A bacterial infection was suspected though results are pending.
Despite this, prison authorities have refused his transfer to a private clinic prompting Byanyima to warn that every hour of delay in appropriate treatment is a cost on his life.
Byanyima also criticized the prison conditions describing confinement in a cramped,poorly ventilated cell and denial of adequate medical care.
Besigye missed a recent court appearance reportedly due to his worsening health.
Supporters and fellow opposition figures are expressing growing anxiety over Besigye’s wellbeing.
They argue that his treatment reflects broader concerns about the handling of political detainees in Uganda under President Yoweri Museveni’s administration.
As global attention mounts Byanyima continues to call for immediate access to proper healthcare for her husband stressing that his life may depend on urgent intervention.
