Muhoozi Sets Record Straight on Besigye, Credits Late Dr. Bata for Saving Museveni’s Life
Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has challenged a long-standing account about President Yoweri Museveni’s medical treatment during the NRA bush war, insisting that opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye was not the doctor who saved his father’s life.
Muhoozi, who is also Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and first son, credited the late Dr. Ronald Bata, describing him as the first physician to join the National Resistance Army (NRA) in 1982.
According to historical accounts, Dr. Bata diagnosed and treated Museveni in 1983 after the then NRA leader developed liver swelling amid suspicions that he could have been poisoned.
Bata later recalled the incident in 2004, claiming that his intervention played a crucial role in saving Museveni’s life. Military records and accounts from the period also identify him as one of the earliest doctors attached to the NRA.
Dr. Besigye, who joined the NRA medical team shortly afterwards, also served as Museveni’s personal physician during the bush war and treated him for various health complications, including dehydration.
However, Muhoozi’s latest remarks appear to challenge narratives that have portrayed Besigye as the doctor who saved Museveni during the struggle.
The issue has renewed attention on the complicated history between Museveni and Besigye, who were once allies in the NRA struggle before their relationship dramatically changed after the 1986 takeover.
Besigye later became one of Museveni’s most prominent political opponents and has repeatedly challenged his government.
The former presidential candidate remains in detention in 2026 while facing treason-related charges.
Muhoozi’s comments therefore add a fresh twist to the historical debate over who played the biggest role in keeping Museveni alive during the NRA bush war.