Prominent Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye has appeared before a military court in Kampala, denying charges of illegal firearm possession and negotiating to buy arms abroad.
His wife, Winnie Byanyima, claims Besigye was abducted in Nairobi, Kenya, last Saturday during a book launch and forcibly returned to Uganda, where he was held in a military jail.
Besigye, 68, is accused alongside fellow opposition politician Obedi Lutale. The charges include possession of pistols in Nairobi and alleged arms negotiations in Geneva, Athens, and Nairobi.
Amid heavy security, Besigye objected to being tried in a military court, demanding a civilian trial, but his request was overruled. The court ordered him to remain in custody until December 2.
The incident has raised concerns in Kenya, with human rights groups and political allies questioning the legality of his detention. Kampala Mayor Erias Lukwago has demanded answers from Kenyan authorities.
Besigye, once President Museveni’s personal doctor, has been a vocal critic of the regime and a four-time presidential contender. He had recently announced plans to re-engage in politics to address internal divisions within his party.
