Africa-Press – Uganda. Common Man’s Party (CMP) presidential flag bearer Mubarak Munyagwa has pledged to make the release of jailed opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye a top priority if he wins the 2026 presidential election.
Dr Besigye, a long-time government critic and four-time presidential contender, has spent nearly a year in detention following his arrest in November 2024 while in Kenya.
He faces charges of subversion and allegedly ridiculing the Ugandan government — accusations his supporters describe as politically motivated.
Addressing supporters in Pakwach, Munyagwa described Dr. Besigye’s continued imprisonment as “a stain on democracy and a blow to political freedom.”
He vowed that his government would “restore justice and respect for dissent” once in power.
“Our struggle is not just about changing faces in State House; it’s about freeing our country from fear that silences brave voices,” Munyagwa said.
“Dr. Besigye has suffered enough for speaking truth to power. It’s time to set him free.”
Known for his populist tone and humorous political style, Munyagwa has recently rebranded himself as a serious contender under the Common Man’s Party — a new political outfit promoting economic fairness and citizen empowerment.
His promise could resonate with sections of the opposition seeking unity, though analysts question whether his bid can generate the national support required to challenge the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Government officials have not commented on Munyagwa’s statement. However, security sources maintain that Dr. Besigye’s case remains a legal matter before Kenyan and Ugandan authorities.
As the 2026 elections draw closer, Munyagwa’s remarks have reignited debate over political freedoms and the treatment of opposition leaders in Uganda.
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