Veteran journalist and political commentator Andrew Mwenda has outlined what he believes Dr. Kizza Besigye would need to do to secure a presidential pardon from President Yoweri Museveni amid his continued detention on treason charges.
Speaking on Simply Legal, a YouTube programme hosted by legal advocate Terry Kahuma, Mwenda discussed the legal and political options surrounding Besigye’s case.
According to Mwenda, Besigye would need to apply for a pardon, plead guilty, apologise and seek forgiveness for what he described as intentions to harm the President of Uganda.
His remarks have brought renewed attention to the possibility of a presidential pardon as Besigye’s legal troubles continue.Besigye has been in detention since November 2024.
In July 2026, he reportedly collapsed in court, raising concerns about his health and the need for rehabilitation to help him regain his speech and mobility.The discussion comes amid government statements about reconciliation efforts reportedly involving Gen. Salim Saleh, even as court proceedings against Besigye remain ongoing.
However, Besigye’s wife has denied claims of formal negotiations, emphasising her husband’s need for proper medical care and a fair trial.
Mwenda’s comments have reignited debate over the relationship between presidential pardon powers, the legal process and the political efforts that could potentially influence the future of Besigye’s case.
