YOUR SILENCE ON BESIGYE IS BETRAYAL: Kenyan Lawyer Tells Former NRA Bush War Generals

KAMPALA — Kenyan lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has issued a strongly worded open appeal to former National Resistance Army (NRA) bush war generals and senior military officers, urging them to publicly speak out over the treatment and legal challenges facing veteran Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye.

In the letter, addressed to several prominent figures who fought alongside President Yoweri Museveni during the 1981–1986 bush war, Njiru argues that their silence has become increasingly difficult to justify as Besigye continues to face legal proceedings and health concerns.

Among those addressed are 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, Col. Samson Mande, as well as other former NRA/NRM commanders.

“Your silence is a betrayal,” Njiru wrote at the beginning of the appeal.

He said the appeal was made respectfully 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.

Njiru wrote that many Ugandans believe the treatment of Dr. Besigye raises serious questions about justice, fairness and the values for which the liberation war was fought.

He called on the former military commanders to issue what he described as “a clear and principled public position” on Besigye’s legal challenges and treatment, while reaffirming their commitment to justice, due process and the rule of law.

The Kenyan advocate further suggested that the former generals consider accompanying Dr. Besigye to court as a peaceful demonstration of solidarity.

According to Njiru, such a move 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,” he wrote, adding that the moment presents an opportunity for the veterans of the liberation struggle to reaffirm the principles for which they once sacrificed.

The appeal comes at a time when Dr. Besigye’s legal situation and health have remained matters of significant public interest, with supporters and political allies continuing to call for what they describe as respect for his rights and access to appropriate medical care.

As of the time of publication, none of the military officers named in the appeal had publicly responded to Njiru’s letter.

President Yoweri Museveni himself has previously noted Besigye’s role in the bush war, including him using chloroform during Kabamba Barracks attacks, as reported Here.