Concerns have emerged over the health and detention conditions of Kampala lawyer and former Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, as his ongoing legal troubles continue to draw national and regional attention.
His colleague and legal representative, Galisonga K. Galisonga, has expressed deep personal concern, saying Lukwago’s current situation is taking a heavy toll on both his health and wellbeing amid the ongoing misprision of treason case.
“As my friend, client and colleague, the tribulations Lukwago is experiencing directly pain me,” Galisonga said.
“I know his health is failing, and I know the health facilities we have fall short of the capacity to cope with his treatment, which is why he has been receiving treatment from abroad. If the law cannot be used to set him free, at least let’s exercise humanity.”
The remarks come at a time when Lukwago remains in legal custody facing charges of misprision of treason, linked to allegations that he had knowledge of alleged subversive activity connected to opposition politician Kizza Besigye’s treason case and failed to report it to authorities.
He was reportedly detained by security operatives in June 2026 before being formally charged and remanded following his appearance in court, where he denied all allegations.
The case has since triggered widespread debate within Uganda’s legal and political circles, with human rights advocates and legal bodies questioning both the circumstances of his arrest and the nature of the charges.
Galisonga’s statement adds a humanitarian dimension to the growing controversy, shifting attention to Lukwago’s reported health condition and the broader issue of medical care access for detained political figures.
He emphasized that Lukwago has previously sought medical attention abroad due to limitations within local health facilities, raising concerns about whether he is receiving adequate care while in custody.
Meanwhile, supporters and legal observers argue that the case reflects a broader pattern of legal pressure against opposition-linked lawyers involved in politically sensitive trials.
State authorities have maintained that the charges are grounded in law and related to ongoing national security investigations, insisting that due process is being followed.