Concerns are mounting over the health and treatment of detained Ugandan lawyer Erias Lukwago after reports emerged that he was quietly transferred to a medical facility under tight security.
The developments have drawn sharp criticism from Winnie Byanyima, who alleges deliberate efforts to undermine the health of political detainees.
In a statement, Byanyima claimed that Lukwago’s access to proper medical care is being restricted and manipulated.
She further linked his situation to that of veteran opposition figure Kizza Besigye, alleging a pattern in how authorities handle high-profile detainees.
According to her, both individuals are occasionally taken to clinics at night without prior notice to their families or associates.
Byanyima also raised concerns about the presence of heavily guarded security personnel during these medical visits.
She described the operations as “shady,” arguing that the secrecy surrounding the transfers raises questions about transparency and the detainees’ well-being.
In her remarks, she directly accused President Yoweri Museveni and his son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, of personally targeting Lukwago and Besigye.
She described the two opposition figures as “personal prisoners,” a claim likely to intensify ongoing political tensions in the country.
Authorities have previously maintained that all detainees are treated in accordance with the law and have access to necessary medical care.
Lukwago, a prominent lawyer and political figure, has faced multiple arrests in the past linked to his opposition activities.
His reported health concerns now add a new dimension to the debate over the treatment of political detainees in Uganda.