Fresh controversy has emerged following remarks by Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, targeting detained opposition lawyer Erias Lukwago shortly after his court appearance on Wednesday.
Lukwago, a former Kampala Lord Mayor, was earlier in the day arraigned before Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court and charged with misprision of treason.
The charge relates to allegations that he failed to report knowledge of suspected treasonous activities. He denied the accusation and was subsequently remanded to Luzira Prison.
However, it is Muhoozi’s reaction on social media that has drawn significant attention. Writing on X on Thursday evening, the army general made a blunt declaration about Lukwago’s fate, stating:
“Lukwago has been craving my attention for decades. He has it now. He is in prison and he will never come out.”
The post came in the wake of earlier activity on his account, where he shared images appearing to show Lukwago during his detention.
The posts have since triggered widespread debate, particularly among legal observers and opposition figures.
Critics argue that such statements from a senior military official risk undermining the integrity of judicial proceedings, especially in an active case.
Concerns have also been raised about the optics of a serving army chief publicly commenting on a civilian suspect facing trial.
Lukwago’s arrest itself had already sparked questions after reports indicated he was taken from his home by armed security operatives and held incommunicado before being presented in court.
His legal team has indicated it will challenge both the charge and the circumstances surrounding his detention.
The case is unfolding against a backdrop of heightened political tension, with increased scrutiny on the intersection between military authority and civilian legal processes in Uganda.