The Patriotic Front Freedom (PFF) and human rights activists have called on United States authorities to investigate allegations surrounding Orlando Andy Wilson, also known as John Hunter, in connection with the case involving Ugandan opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye.
In a statement addressed to the United States government and relevant authorities, the group urged the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the US Embassy in Uganda to examine allegations concerning Wilson's reported involvement in the alleged kidnapping and rendition of Besigye and his co-accused, Obeid Lutale.
The activists also raised concerns over Wilson's reported role as a state witness in the ongoing treason proceedings against Besigye, arguing that the circumstances surrounding his involvement should be independently scrutinised.
The group said the allegations were serious and potentially touched on human rights, due process and the rule of law.
It urged US authorities to establish whether Wilson was involved in the alleged events and determine whether any US laws, international obligations or human rights principles may have been violated.
“Justice requires that serious allegations be investigated, regardless of who is involved,” the activists said in their appeal.
The call comes amid continued scrutiny of the legal proceedings against Besigye, a prominent Ugandan opposition politician who has faced prolonged legal proceedings over allegations brought against him by the Ugandan state.
PFF and the activists stressed that their request was not intended to determine Wilson's guilt or wrongdoing but to establish the facts through an independent investigation based on credible evidence.
They further called for the process to be impartial and transparent, saying the allegations were matters of public concern that warranted examination by the appropriate authorities.
The group asked US officials to take any necessary action should an investigation establish that laws or international obligations had been breached.
The allegations contained in the statement have not been independently established, and Wilson's reported role and the circumstances surrounding the Besigye case remain matters requiring verification through the relevant legal and investigative processes.
The appeal adds to growing calls from activists and opposition supporters for greater scrutiny of the treatment of Besigye and other individuals facing legal proceedings in Uganda.