Senior presidential adviser Gen. Salim Saleh has expressed optimism that efforts to resolve the case involving detained opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye could yield results within three to six months, raising the possibility of a breakthrough in a politically sensitive matter that has attracted national attention.
Saleh made the remarks while addressing leaders of National Resistance Movement (NRM) parliamentary committees in Kapeeka, where he discussed ongoing engagements involving Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale.
The senior military officer, who heads Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and is President Yoweri Museveni’s younger brother, indicated that discussions surrounding the case were ongoing and that he hoped for a positive outcome within the stated timeframe.
Saleh also revealed that he had visited Besigye after learning that the opposition politician was unwell while in detention. He said Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba had tasked him with handling the matter, placing him at the centre of efforts to engage the detained opposition leader.
Although Saleh expressed confidence that progress could be made in the coming months, he did not provide specific details about the discussions or explain what steps would be required to achieve a resolution.
His remarks come amid growing public interest in Besigye’s continued detention and the possibility of an understanding that could influence the course of his case.
Information and Communications Technology Minister Justine Lumumba recently confirmed in Parliament that Saleh was holding discussions with Besigye and Lutale, providing further indication that engagements involving the accused individuals were taking place.
However, it remains unclear whether the talks could lead to the withdrawal of charges, a change in the legal proceedings or another form of resolution. No formal agreement or final decision has been announced.
Besigye, a former presidential candidate and long-time critic of Museveni’s government, has been in detention since November 2024. He faces treason charges alongside Lutale, in a case that has remained a major subject of political and public debate.
His continued imprisonment has also raised concerns about his health and access to medical care, particularly following reports that he required hospital treatment while in custody.
Saleh’s three-to-six-month projection could therefore become an important timeline to watch as efforts to engage the opposition leader continue. However, whether the discussions will produce a breakthrough remains uncertain, and the legal status of the case will depend on developments in the relevant proceedings.
