By AGGREY BULUBA
Kampala – In Luzira Prison, where security is paramount, Commissioner General of Prisons Johnson Byabashaija defended the stringent conditions imposed on former presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye, who faces multiple charges. He stated that these measures are essential for maintaining order.
During a session with Parliament’s Human Rights Committee, which is examining concerns about Besigye’s treatment, Byabashaija dismissed allegations of mistreatment. He asserted that the restrictions are for Besigye’s safety and to prevent unrest among other inmates.
“In the past, we had no issues with Dr. Besigye in custody, but this time is different,” Byabashaija explained. “A close relative expressed fears for his life, prompting me to take extra precautions. He is in Ward 19 with 19 other inmates and cannot interact with others. This is solely for security reasons.”
Byabashaija acknowledged the difficulties faced by prison staff, noting that Luzira’s officers are outnumbered by inmates at a ratio of 12 to 1. “If a spark falls in a dry bush, you cannot blame the fire,” he cautioned, highlighting the potential for disturbances to escalate rapidly.
To avoid chaos, he restricted Besigye’s movements, requiring him to communicate with visitors through a screen instead of in person.
“Initially, he had direct visits, but after assessing the risks, I decided he should use a phone and screen. This is purely a security measure,” Byabashaija stated.
He also dismissed reports of Besigye going on a hunger strike, claiming Besigye had designated individuals to bring him food.
“We have no record of him refusing to eat,” he said. “When someone accuses you of wanting to harm them under your care, you must take all necessary precautions.”
However, MP Rose Obiga (Terego District Woman Representative) contradicted Byabashaija, stating that Besigye had previously been barred from receiving outside food.
“He was told to buy from the prison canteen or rely on prison meals, leading him to refuse food until a meeting reversed the decision,” Obiga revealed.
Byabashaija also addressed complaints that Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, Besigye’s lawyer, was blocked from visiting him on a significant day. He clarified that MPs from the Human Rights Committee had been authorized to visit Besigye, and prison rules limit the number of visitors at once.
“We cannot allow MPs, lawyers, and other visitors simultaneously. Lukwago was permitted to visit the next day. We are not unreasonable,” he explained.
Byabashaija emphasized that prison officers can deny entry to anyone causing disruption.
“MPs are allowed in as justices. However, if someone behaves disruptively, the Officer in Charge has the right to refuse them entry,” he concluded.
As the debate continues, it is clear that while prison authorities claim to be protecting Besigye, his supporters view the measures as unjust punishment. Only time will reveal the truth.
Discussion about this post