Former Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura has criticised the judiciary following the dismissal of Erias Lukwago’s bail application, a decision that has heightened scrutiny over Uganda’s handling of politically sensitive cases.
Justice David Matovu on Thursday, July 30, rejected Lukwago’s request for bail and directed the Deputy Registrar to immediately process committal paperwork, paving the way for the case to be assigned to a substantive judge.
The order means Lukwago will remain in custody as the matter proceeds to the next stage.
Lukwago, a senior advocate and opposition figure, is facing charges linked to the state’s case against Dr Kizza Besigye.
His continued detention has raised concerns among opposition leaders, particularly given his role within Besigye’s legal team.
Reacting to the ruling, Nyanjura questioned the direction of the country’s justice system.
“Justice David Matovu has dismissed counsel Erias Lukwago’s bail application and ordered the Deputy Registrar to immediately process the committal paperwork and assign the case to a substantive judge,” she said.
She added:
“But does God still remember that there is a country called Uganda!”
Her remarks reflect growing unease among opposition figures and sections of the legal fraternity, who argue that recent court decisions risk eroding public confidence in the judiciary.
The committal directive signals the transition of the case to full trial proceedings before a substantive judge.
Lukwago’s legal team is now expected to consider further options, including a possible appeal against the bail ruling.
The case unfolds against a backdrop of rising political tension in Uganda, with opposition leaders increasingly raising concerns over arrests, detention, and the shrinking space for dissent.