The arrest and detention of Ugandan opposition lawyer and former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has drawn renewed attention following public remarks by Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Lukwago was arrested on June 15, 2026, during a security operation at his residence in Kampala. Armed operatives reportedly took him into custody and held him for several days before presenting him in court.
During that period, his legal team raised concerns over restricted access to counsel and limited communication with family members.
He was later arraigned before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court and charged with misprision of treason. The charge alleges that he had prior knowledge of activities deemed treasonous but failed to report them to authorities.
Lukwago denied the accusations and was remanded to Luzira Prison pending further proceedings.
The case is linked to broader investigations involving opposition figure Kizza Besigye, whom Lukwago has been representing. Authorities have not publicly outlined the full evidentiary basis for the charge.
In a post shared on X, General Muhoozi commented directly on the arrest, stating: “Lukwago was an easy job for us. Personally, I always thought he was very DAFT! I mean just look at the shape of his head. SQUARE! But I'm a merciful man. I will release him when I'm ready.”
The remarks have drawn attention to the role of the military in matters involving civilian legal processes.
Legal experts note that decisions regarding detention, bail, and release fall within the jurisdiction of the courts, as provided for under Uganda’s legal framework.
The developments come amid heightened political tensions, with several opposition figures facing legal scrutiny