Ugandan opposition leader under 'preventive arrest'

Kizza Besigye said on Thursday he would consult his lawyers about the legality of what he was told was "preventive arrest." Mr. Besigye said he was given the option of returning home or being taken to jail. He chose to return home.

Uganda’s top opposition leader says police have put him under effective house arrest after a confrontation outside his home.

Kizza Besigye said on Thursday he would consult his lawyers about the legality of what he was told was “preventive arrest.” Mr. Besigye said he was given the option of returning home or being taken to jail. He chose to return home.

Mr. Besigye has been leading “walk to work” marches to protest government corruption and rising food and fuel costs. The marches have sparked violence between police and protesters. Human Rights Watch says police have killed nine people during the marches.

The police maintained a heavy presence near Mr. Besigye’s home. A government spokesman said a statement would be released soon.