The Commonwealth called on Tuesday for Uganda, a member of the 56-nation group, to release opposition politician Kizza Besigye, saying his detention undermined democracy and human rights.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland said the detention of Besigye, his lawyer and an aide undermined "principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law",

Buhweju County lawmaker Francis Mwijukye confirmed that Kizza Besigye had been rushed to a clinic in Uganda's capital Kampala over his deteriorating health

Detained Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye, who went on a hunger strike last week, has been rushed to hospital after his health deteriorated, an allied lawmaker and a local television broadcaster said.

A prominent opposition figure jailed in Uganda for allegedly threatening state security is unwell and in need of urgent medical care.

KAMPALA (Reuters) - Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye, who went on a hunger strike last week, has been rushed to hospital after his health deteriorated, said an allied lawmaker and a local television broadcaster.