Release Dr. Besigye now! - DUA
Posted:(Apr 25 2011)
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Statement on the detention of Dr. Kizza Besigye

The Democrat Union of Africa (DUA) condemns in the strongest terms the treatment being meted out to Dr. Kizza Besigye, the Ugandan Opposition Leader and the Chairman of the DUA. Dr. Besigye and other Opposition Parties in Uganda had staged a “walk to work” demonstration in response to rising commodity prices.

The response from President Yoweri Museveni and the Ugandan Security Forces were to initially shoot Dr. Besigye in the arm and later have him arrested, bogus charges preferred on him and members of the Ugandan Opposition and then jailed.

DUA demands the immediate release of Dr. Besigye and all Opposition forces and the subsequent cessation of all court proceedings related to the “walk to work” demonstration. Free speech and the right to assemble is enshrined in the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights adopted and enforced in 1981 of which Uganda is a signatory. We therefore expect President Museveni to be tolerant of opposing views.

Dr. Besigye has fought all his life to liberate Ugandans from dictators and leaders whose quest to silence critics has been the use of brute force. We urge the Police and other security forces to be professional and independent and not remote-controlled by the government of Uganda and used to terrorize people.

DUA calls on the UN, AU and the diplomatic community to put more pressure on President Museveni to cease immediately this clear breach of fundamental human rights.   

Signed.

Charles Owiredu

Secretary General

Democrat Union of Africa

25 April 2011