Former Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura has revealed that jailed opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye is undergoing speech and physical therapy to regain his ability to speak and walk, nearly three months after collapsing in court and being admitted to intensive care.

Nyanjura, who serves as Head of Special Interest Groups for the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), shared the update following an emotional visit to the veteran opposition politician, detailing his condition in a statement posted on her official X account on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.

According to Nyanjura, she was deeply affected by Besigye’s condition, describing the reality of seeing the four-time presidential candidate being taught basic speech and walking skills again.

She recounted finding a speech therapist guiding the 70-year-old through simple word exercises using charts containing words such as “dog” and “boy”.

It broke my heart to see that he is now being taught how to walk and talk again.

She explained that although Besigye’s hearing remains intact, he is currently unable to speak and depends on alternative methods to communicate with visitors.

The opposition leader reportedly uses an alphabetical chart to spell out words letter by letter, allowing those around him to write down his intended message. He also uses sign language when he becomes tired.

Nyanjura added that Besigye’s physical strength remains limited, with his hands shaking to the extent that he struggles to hold simple items such as a bottle of water.

Erias Lukwago rushed to Mulago Hospital in critical condition – Doreen Nyanjura

Despite the difficulties, she noted that his mental sharpness and sense of humour remain intact.

During their interaction, Nyanjura expressed shock at the extent of his condition. Besigye responded by tapping out a reassuring message, telling her that “it could have been worse”.

She further revealed that Besigye does not remember the exact events leading to his collapse in court. According to her account, he only recalls regaining consciousness days later in the Intensive Care Unit at Mulago National Referral Hospital.

During the visit, Nyanjura also briefed him on the condition of Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who is receiving treatment at the same facility. However, the two political leaders have not yet managed to meet.

Despite his ongoing rehabilitation, Besigye reportedly shared his thoughts on Uganda’s political situation, saying the country felt as though it had been taken back to the 1890s.

He also observed that remaining alive under the current political regime was an achievement in itself, while encouraging his supporters to remain resilient amid the challenges facing the country.

Nyanjura concluded her update by asking the public to keep Besigye in their thoughts and prayers as he continues his recovery. She expressed hope that his determination would continue to inspire his supporters despite his health challenges.

Besigye has been in custody since November 2024, when he and his aide, Obeid Lutale, were arrested in Kenya and returned to Uganda. They were subsequently charged with treason alongside UPDF Captain Denis Oola.

All three accused persons have denied the charges, which their lawyers and political allies have described as politically motivated.