By Staff Reporter Baker Junior
KAMPALA — Kenyan lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has called on former National Resistance Army (NRA) bush war generals and senior military officers to publicly address the legal challenges facing veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, arguing that their silence is becoming increasingly difficult to justify.
In an open letter addressed to several prominent figures who fought alongside President Yoweri Museveni during the 1981–1986 liberation war, Njiru urged the former commanders to take a principled public stand on what he described as growing concerns over Besigye’s treatment, ongoing legal proceedings and reported health challenges.
Those addressed include Gen. Salim Saleh, Gen. Mugisha Muntu, Gen. David Sejusa, Gen. Ivan Koreta, Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, Gen. Jeje Odongo, Gen. Jim Muhwezi, Gen. Henry Tumukunde, Gen. Katumba Wamala, Gen. Charles Angina, Gen. Joram Mugume, Gen. Fred Tolit, Col. Steven Kashaka and Col. Samson Mande, among other former NRA/NRM commanders.
Njiru said his appeal was directed to men and women who shared “the hardships, sacrifices and ideals of the liberation struggle” with Dr. Besigye, arguing that their shared history places them in a unique position to speak on issues affecting their former comrade.
He noted that many Ugandans believe Besigye’s treatment raises serious questions about justice, fairness and the principles for which the liberation war was fought.
The Kenyan advocate urged the former military leaders to issue what he described as “a clear and principled public position” on Besigye’s legal challenges while reaffirming their commitment to justice, due process and the rule of law.
Njiru also proposed that the former generals accompany Dr. Besigye to court as a peaceful demonstration of solidarity, saying such a gesture would not interfere with judicial proceedings but would instead symbolize their commitment to ensuring that every Ugandan is treated fairly before the law.
“The ideals of unity, accountability and justice are tested not only in times of war but also in times of peace,” Njiru wrote, adding that the current situation presents an opportunity for veterans of the liberation struggle to reaffirm the principles for which they once sacrificed.
The appeal comes amid continued public interest in Dr. Besigye’s legal case and health, with supporters and political allies calling for respect for his rights, due process and access to appropriate medical care.
By the time of publication, none of the military officers named in the letter had publicly responded to Njiru’s appeal.
President Museveni has previously acknowledged Dr. Besigye’s role during the bush war, including his participation in operations such as the attack on Kabamba Barracks, where Besigye reportedly used chloroform as part of the mission.
