KAMPALA, UGANDA — Former Kampala Lord Mayor and defence lawyer Erias Lukwago has been returned to Luzira Prison after the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court failed to deliver a ruling on his bail application as expected.
The court had earlier on Monday heard submissions from both the prosecution and defence teams before indicating that a decision would be delivered later in the afternoon. However, the ruling was postponed.
Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera did not pronounce herself on the bail application, leaving the matter unresolved.
Related: Erias Lukwago Charged with Failure to report treason after arrest
Court Delay Sparks Uncertainty Over Bail Decision
Court proceedings were initially adjourned in the morning session, with parties informed that the ruling would be delivered at 2pm. When the court resumed, the expected ruling was not ready.
A brief closed-door session later took place involving the magistrate, Lukwago, and his legal team in chambers.
After the meeting, it was communicated that the ruling had not been completed and would instead be delivered electronically within 24 hours.
The delay meant Lukwago, who has been in custody, was taken back to Luzira Prison to await the court’s final decision on his bail application.
He is facing a charge of misprision of treason, which prosecutors allege involves failure to report information related to an alleged treason plot. Lukwago denies the charge.
His lawyers, led by Medard Lubega Sseggona, had earlier urged the court to grant him bail, citing his health condition, fixed residence, and public office background.
Public Reaction Outside Court
The delay left several supporters disappointed, as they had gathered outside court expecting a ruling and possible release.
Some visibly emotional moments were reported as prison officers escorted Lukwago back into custody.
Uganda People’s Congress president Jimmy Akena criticised the delay, questioning the independence of the judiciary and calling for fairness in the handling of the case.
Also Read: Lukwago objects to charge sheet amendment calls for immediate bail of 25 detainees
“The court is not free,” Akena said, expressing concern over the process. The court ruling is now expected on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
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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