Common Man’s Party (CMP) presidential flag bearer Mubarak Munyagwa has issued a passionate appeal to Uganda’s Judiciary, urging it to uphold the rule of law and release detained opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye. Speaking after a visit to Luzira Prison on Friday, Munyagwa accused the justice system of failing in its constitutional duty, warning that prolonged detention without trial not only violates human rights but also erodes public trust in the courts meant to safeguard justice.

Munyagwa, known for his fiery rhetoric and populist appeal, met Dr. Besigye—former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) president and four-time presidential contender—who has spent several months in detention over allegations of unlawful assembly and incitement of violence. The CMP leader said his visit was both humanitarian and symbolic, a gesture of solidarity with fellow opposition figures and a reaffirmation of his commitment to justice, equality, and constitutionalism.

“Ugandans look to the Judiciary as a symbol of hope and fairness,” Munyagwa told journalists after the visit. “If those entrusted with defending the Constitution fail to do so, the same law will one day turn against them. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.” He noted that the constitutional six-month period for bringing an accused person to trial had already elapsed, questioning why Dr. Besigye remains behind bars without a concluded case.

Munyagwa described Besigye’s prison conditions as “harsh and worrying,” adding that what he saw raised serious human rights and constitutional concerns. “The state cannot continue to detain its citizens indefinitely under the guise of legal procedure,” he said. “This is not just about Besigye—it’s about every Ugandan who believes in fairness and the rule of law.” He challenged Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo to demonstrate independence and integrity, insisting that the Judiciary must rise above political pressure and restore public faith in the justice system.

Dr. Kizza Besigye, a prominent critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has long claimed that his legal troubles are politically motivated—a pattern of persecution designed to silence dissent. His legal team has repeatedly filed petitions challenging both his detention and the sluggish court processes that have kept him in custody for months. Munyagwa echoed this sentiment, arguing that the country’s legal framework should protect citizens from abuse of power, not be used as a weapon against political opponents.

“The Constitution is the backbone of our democracy,” Munyagwa said. “When we ignore it for political convenience, we all become vulnerable. It is time the Judiciary reminded the nation that justice serves the people, not those in power.” His remarks drew mixed reactions from sections of the political class, with opposition supporters applauding his courage while some government figures dismissed his statements as political grandstanding ahead of the 2026 elections.

Following the Luzira visit, Munyagwa announced that his nationwide mobilization tour would continue over the weekend, with campaign stops in Ntungamo and Kabale before heading to Rukungiri, Dr. Besigye’s home district. The tour, he said, is aimed at awakening what he calls “the common man’s voice” across Uganda, encouraging citizens to demand accountability and justice. As the 2026 presidential race takes shape, Munyagwa appears to be carving a niche for himself as the defiant voice of the ordinary Ugandan—one unafraid to challenge entrenched systems of power.

With tensions rising in the country’s political landscape, Munyagwa’s bold call for justice resonates beyond the confines of Luzira Prison. His message is a reminder that the rule of law remains the foundation upon which Uganda’s democracy must stand. Whether the Judiciary will heed his appeal and grant Dr. Besigye freedom remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—Munyagwa’s words have reignited debate about justice, fairness, and the true meaning of independence in Uganda’s courts.