A leading European legal body has formally raised concern with President Yoweri Museveni over the reported detention of Ugandan lawyer Erias Lukwago, citing potential violations of international legal protections and the rule of law.
In a letter dated June 24, 2026, the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe (CCBE), which represents legal professionals across 46 countries, said it was “deeply concerned” about reports that Lukwago was detained by security forces on June 15.
According to the communication, armed personnel allegedly entered his residence in Kampala and took him to an undisclosed location.
The CCBE noted that Lukwago was reportedly acting in his professional capacity at the time of his arrest, preparing to serve legal summons on General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces and son of the President.
The organization indicated that such circumstances raise questions about interference with the independence of the legal profession.
In its letter, the European body referenced the United Nations Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers, particularly provisions that guarantee lawyers the right to perform their duties without intimidation, hindrance, or harassment.
It stressed that any action against a lawyer in connection with their professional work could undermine the administration of justice.
The CCBE further urged Ugandan authorities to urgently clarify the legal basis for Lukwago’s detention, disclose his whereabouts, and ensure that he is able to continue his professional duties without obstruction.
It emphasized that lawyers must be protected from reprisals in order to maintain the integrity of judicial systems.
Additionally, the organization called on Uganda to consider signing and ratifying the recently adopted Council of Europe Convention on the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer, once it becomes open for accession to non-European states.
The development is likely to draw increased international attention to Uganda’s handling of legal and human rights issues, particularly regarding the treatment of advocates involved in politically sensitive cases.
By press time, Ugandan authorities had not publicly responded to the concerns raised in the letter. Lukwago’s reported detention adds to ongoing scrutiny over the operating environment for lawyers and civil society actors in the country.