Lukwago at Makindye Court on Wednesday
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) President Isaac Ssemakadde has written a strongly worded complaint to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Lino Anguzu, condemning the decision to charge veteran lawyer Erias Lukwago with misprision of treason, describing it as politically motivated and unconstitutional.
In the letter, Ssemakadde says the Society is formally protesting what he terms the “sanctioning and continuation of politically driven prosecution” against Lukwago, who is also serving as lead defence counsel in the ongoing treason case involving opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye and co-accused Hajji Obeid Lutale.
He argues that the move violates constitutional protections, citing Article 43(2)(a), which prohibits political persecution, as well as Articles 120(5) and 120(6), which require the DPP to act independently, impartially, and without political influence.
Ssemakadde further claims that Lukwago’s arrest and subsequent charges stem from his legal role in attempting to serve court documents in the high-profile case.
He alleges that the advocate was earlier “abducted by UPDF operatives” under circumstances linked to his professional duties, describing the developments as part of a wider pattern of intimidation against defence lawyers.
The ULS President warns that the misprision of treason charges amount to an abuse of prosecutorial authority, arguing that legal representation in a politically sensitive trial cannot be interpreted as criminal conduct.
He describes the case as “lawfare,” or the use of legal systems to pressure and silence political opposition and their legal teams.
According to Ssemakadde, the actions taken against Lukwago represent an attack not only on an individual advocate but on the independence of the entire legal profession.
He calls for the immediate withdrawal of the charges, full disclosure on Lukwago’s detention, and assurances that the DPP’s office will not be used to advance partisan interests.
The letter also criticises what it describes as silence from state institutions following earlier warnings by the ULS regarding abuse of prosecutorial discretion.
Ssemakadde says this silence undermines constitutional safeguards and fair trial rights.
Isaac Ssemakadde's Letter;
He further puts the DPP on notice that the legal fraternity will challenge the charges in court, including constitutional applications seeking to declare them an abuse of process.
He also warns of coordinated protests, including daily picketing of the DPP’s offices, if the charges are not withdrawn.
The Uganda Law Society says it will pursue both domestic and international legal avenues, insisting that the developments are being closely watched by both national and international observers.