Salim Saleh found Besigye near death in prison

Retired General Caleb Akandwanaho, also known as Salim Saleh, stated he found opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye in a critical condition at Luzira Prison. Saleh intervened after receiving a directive on August 25 from Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba to handle Besigye's situation. He arranged for Besigye's transfer to the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) for better medical care.

Saleh described Besigye as "almost dead" when he visited him in prison, prompting his immediate transfer. He explained that JCRC was a facility he helped establish and would personally use for intensive medical needs. This intervention followed Besigye's collapse during a court session in July 2026, after which he was initially taken to Mulago National Referral Hospital.

Saleh addressed chairpersons of parliamentary committees at Namunkekera, Kapeeka, about his reconnection with Besigye. He avoided labelling his engagement as peace talks, stating it was an opportunity to reconnect with an old colleague.

Why it mattersOpposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye's health and detention are of direct concern to Ugandans following his collapse and transfer for medical treatment.

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