A fresh legal dispute has emerged over the continued detention of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, with lawyer Eron Kiiza questioning the basis of the charges and the decision to deny him bail.
Lukwago, who also served as a defence lawyer for opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye, is not facing treason charges but is instead accused of misprision of treason — a claim that he knew of an alleged plot and failed to report it.
In a social media statement on Friday, July 10, Kiiza argues that the justification used by the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court to deny Lukwago bail does not align with the facts presented by the prosecution.
On June 23, 2026, Chief Magistrate Sarah Anne Basemera ruled that Lukwago’s release could interfere with ongoing investigations, despite acknowledging that his sureties were credible, his residence was verified, and his health concerns were documented.
“The court made no finding that he had interfered or intended to interfere with witnesses,” Kiiza stated, adding that Lukwago was returned to Luzira Prison primarily on the assumption that his influence could potentially affect inquiries.
However, Kiiza disputes the claim that investigations are ongoing. He points to records before the High Court indicating that investigations into the alleged treason plot involving Besigye were completed as early as May 2025.
According to him, the State had already filed charges, amended indictments, and disclosed evidence, declaring readiness for trial.
“It is inconsistent for the prosecution to claim before one court that investigations are complete, and before another that they are still ongoing,” Kiiza argued.
The lawyer further raised concerns about Lukwago’s health, describing him as “visibly frail” and in need of specialised medical attention reportedly recommended abroad. He questioned whether continued detention under such conditions is justified.
Kiiza also linked Lukwago’s arrest to his role in Besigye’s defence team. Lukwago was reportedly arrested on June 15, 2026, days before he was expected in court, and formally charged two days later after being held incommunicado.
The timing of the case, Kiiza suggested, effectively removed a key defence lawyer from ongoing proceedings.
The Directorate of Public Prosecutions has not publicly responded to Kiiza’s claims. The case is expected to proceed before High Court Judge Emmanuel Baguma as legal and political scrutiny intensifies.
The developments add to growing debate over the handling of politically sensitive cases in Uganda’s justice system.