Kampala: The Commissioner General of Prisons, Johnson Byabashaija, has assured Members of Parliament that inmates requiring specialized medical care, which cannot be provided by the prison service, are permitted to consult with their personal doctors.
According to African Press Organization, Byabashaija made this statement while appearing before the Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs, chaired by Hon. Robina Rwakoojo, on Thursday, 06 August 2026. This appearance was prompted by concerns from MPs regarding the healthcare provisions for high-profile remand prisoners, including veteran opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye and former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago.
Kampala District Woman MP, Hon. Shamim Malende, specifically questioned the Commissioner General about the medical services available to Besigye. She highlighted the issue of prisoners who enter the system while on strong medication and under the care of personal doctors, stating that the medication available in prison might not be adequate for such inmates.