'Explain Why Dr. Kizza Besigye Has Been Detained for So Long,' Gen. Salim Saleh Reportedly Writes to Son Gen. Muhoozi, Demands Full Briefing From Military and Intelligence Agencies"

Gen. Salim Saleh has reportedly written to his son, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, seeking an explanation over the prolonged detention and prosecution of opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye.

According to reports, Saleh made the request in a handwritten letter dated June 28, in which he asked for a comprehensive briefing from the military and intelligence agencies regarding the circumstances surrounding Besigye's continued detention and the legal proceedings against him.

The senior military officer is said to have indicated that he requires detailed information to better understand the case and adequately respond to growing public concerns that have emerged over the matter.

Dr. Besigye, a former personal physician to President Yoweri Museveni during the National Resistance Army (NRA) bush war, later became one of the President's fiercest political challengers and has remained a central figure in Uganda's opposition politics for more than two decades.

According to sources familiar with the reported letter, Saleh believes the information provided by security agencies will help clarify the legal and operational basis for the continued prosecution of the veteran opposition leader.

The reported correspondence has attracted significant public attention because of Saleh's senior position within Uganda's security establishment and his close family relationship with Gen. Muhoozi, who currently heads the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF).

Political observers say the reported request could intensify public discussion surrounding Besigye's legal battles, with many Ugandans closely following developments involving the veteran politician.

The contents of the reported letter have not yet been officially confirmed by either Gen. Saleh or Gen. Muhoozi, and neither the UPDF nor intelligence agencies have publicly responded to the claims.

The reported development comes at a time when concerns over the treatment of opposition figures, the role of security agencies and the administration of justice continue to dominate political debate ahead of Uganda's 2026 general elections.

Supporters of Dr. Besigye have repeatedly called for his release or a speedy conclusion of the legal process, while government officials have maintained that legal matters should be allowed to proceed through the appropriate judicial channels.

If confirmed, Saleh's reported request for a full briefing could add another dimension to the ongoing national conversation about accountability, security operations and the handling of politically sensitive cases in Uganda.