Former Kampala Lord Mayor and lawyer Erias Lukwago has been charged with failure to report treason. The charge adds a new twist to Uganda’s growing political and legal tensions.
Lukwago appeared before a court in Kampala on Thursday. He had spent several days in detention after his arrest earlier this week.
According to reports, he looked weak during the proceedings. However, he denied the accusations against him.
The court remanded Lukwago to prison. His case will be heard next week.
Related: State begins Besigye’s treason trial today, 10 Witnesses Set to Testify
Arrest Sparks Political Debate
Lukwago’s arrest quickly drew national attention. This came after Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba commented on the matter on social media.
In addition, the arrest drew criticism from opposition figures and activists. They questioned the circumstances surrounding Lukwago’s detention.
Opposition leader Bobi Wine condemned the arrest. He alleged that Lukwago was targeted while preparing legal action involving the military chief.
Family Raises Concerns Over Detention
Before Lukwago appeared in court, his family sought legal intervention. They demanded that security agencies reveal his whereabouts after several days without communication.
Court documents filed by relatives reportedly asked authorities to produce him in court. They also requested an explanation for his detention.
Furthermore, the family cited social media posts that appeared to reference Lukwago’s arrest and treatment while in custody.

Connection to Besigye’s Case
Lukwago is part of the legal team representing veteran opposition leader Kizza Besigye. Besigye faces treason charges after being returned to Uganda from Kenya in late 2024.
Besigye remains one of President Yoweri Museveni’s most prominent political challengers.
Over the years, he has contested several presidential elections. He has also faced numerous arrests linked to his political activities.
Also Read: JUST IN: Erias Lukwago Launches PFF Registration Drive
The latest developments are expected to intensify debate over political freedoms and the justice system in Uganda.
Meanwhile, opposition politics is likely to remain a major topic as the country moves closer to future elections.
Authorities have not yet released additional details about the evidence supporting the charge against Lukwago.
written by @enock katamba
- Enock Katamba is a Ugandan Journalist and Founder of Uncovered UG, an independent digital news platform covering Uganda and international developments. He reports on politics, national affairs, entertainment, sports, business, education and other stories of public interest.
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