The Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has weighed in on the continued detention of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago following his remand after being denied bail on Tuesday, making sharp remarks that have intensified political debate in the country.
In a statement shared on social media, Muhoozi directly linked Lukwago’s arrest to past accusations the opposition lawyer had made against him, while also defending his own record in the military.
“Lukwago committed the ultimate crime. Accusing me of violating human rights when I am the biggest defender of human rights in Uganda. When I was fighting Joseph Kony in Northern Uganda he was doing nothing apart from impregnating women in Kampala,” Muhoozi stated.
The comments come at a time when Lukwago, a long-serving opposition figure and vocal government critic, remains in custody as legal proceedings continue.
Lukwago, represented in public life as a prominent opposition voice and former Kampala Lord Mayor, has previously clashed with state institutions over governance and human rights issues.
Erias Lukwago was remanded earlier this week after a court declined his bail application, extending his stay in custody as investigations proceed.
Muhoozi also used the statement to frame recent security operations targeting opposition-linked activities, saying they were necessary for national stability.
“Our operations against the Opposition last week are a reassurance to the great Ugandan people by the Security Forces that Uganda will NEVER be led or controlled by a foreign-sponsored political organisation!” he added.
The remarks have further escalated political tensions, with critics questioning the framing of opposition activity and the broader implications for political expression.
Muhoozi Kainerugaba has in recent months become increasingly vocal on political matters, often using public platforms to address governance, security, and opposition figures.
As Lukwago remains in custody, attention is now shifting to the next court proceedings, which are expected to determine whether he will be released or continue to face detention as investigations continue.