Photo: Gen. Muhoozi/X
Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has triggered sharp reactions after issuing a series of controversial statements following the reported abduction of senior lawyer and opposition figure Erias Lukwago.
Lukwago was reportedly taken from his residence in Wakaliga, Kampala, on Monday morning by armed security operatives in an early dawn operation that has raised fresh concerns over the conduct of security agencies.
Lukwago was reportedly taken from his residence in Wakaliga, Kampala, on Monday morning by armed security operatives in an early dawn operation that has raised fresh concerns over the conduct of security agencies.
Witnesses say heavily armed men, some in uniform and others in civilian attire, surrounded the home before forcefully gaining entry and taking him to an undisclosed location.
Shortly after news of the incident began circulating, General Muhoozi posted remarks on social media that appeared to reference Lukwago’s detention.
In one post, he stated, “We are still warming up the fool. Pictures soon.” In another, he added, “I have captured a FOOL and taken him to the basement!”
He further dismissed claims that Lukwago had summoned him, writing, “He summoned me?? How do you DARE to utter those words? Only Mzee can summon me. This fool will learn the lesson he has been begging for.”
The statements have intensified public debate, with critics questioning both the language used and the apparent admission of involvement in Lukwago’s detention.
By Monday afternoon, authorities had not issued an official statement clarifying the circumstances of the operation or confirming Lukwago’s whereabouts.
Earlier, Lukwago had posted messages indicating that his home was under siege, claiming security operatives had surrounded his residence and were attempting to gain entry.
His aides later confirmed that he had been taken by force, describing the incident as an abduction.
The development has drawn attention from legal observers and opposition figures, who argue that if Lukwago is required to answer to any charges, due process should be followed.
Others have raised concerns about the increasing use of security operations targeting political actors.
Lukwago, a prominent lawyer and former Lord Mayor of Kampala, is widely known for representing opposition leaders and challenging government actions in court.
The incident comes at a time of heightened political tension in Uganda, with growing scrutiny over the role of security forces in handling dissent.
Reactions:
Emma Surura: Forgive him walai . We do mistakes unknowingly for the sake of fullfuling the duty of our bosses and I think he did so on orders and directives of his boss Besigye. My leader i beg you to forgive and warn him against any threatening to you in the near future.
Richard Byemalo: Afande, ingaha ingaha ingaha! For God's sake, this is uncalled for. We can do it to the @NUP_Ug foot soldiers, the Mufumbiros but not the person of Erias Lukwago_ !!This has broken my heart. Kaka angu, siumesema tuonge Swahili, hapa tumezidi, wewe pamoja nasisi wafuasi wako jamani.
Ermander: The fingers appear to be the fingers of @EriasLukwago_, why should a civilian be arrested by the military and why blindfold him after arrest? This is totally unacceptable and you are depriving him of his rights. Please let the citizens know the offences he has committed.
Sserunjogi: I dont think there is any Ugandan who should be happy about this its really absurd.