Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has intervened to block a memorial mass scheduled at Rubaga Cathedral for Kizza Besigye, a prominent opposition figure who has been imprisoned on treason charges since November 2024. Besigye's wife, Winnie Byanyima, revealed that the Archbishop of Kampala received a direct call from Museveni, insisting that the mass be canceled due to its political implications. This incident highlights the tense political climate in Uganda, particularly surrounding Besigye, who has been a vocal critic of Museveni's long-standing rule.

Besigye, a former doctor to Museveni and his main political rival for over two decades, was abducted in Nairobi and taken back to Uganda, where he has since faced numerous health issues while being denied bail. The cancellation of the mass, which was meant to rally support and pray for his health, underscores the ongoing repression of political dissent in the country. Besigye's legal troubles and the government's efforts to stifle support for him illustrate the extent of political tension in Uganda.

This act of censorship raises questions about freedom of expression and the treatment of political prisoners in Uganda. With elections on the horizon, the government's crackdown on perceived dissent could lead to increased tensions in both the political and public arenas, especially among Besigye's supporters who view these actions as part of a larger strategy to maintain power amid growing opposition.