Politics 16 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Lukwago Abduction Recalls Uganda's Troubled Past
The recent abduction of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, legal counsel for opposition figure Kizza Besigye, has sparked widespread condemnation and evoked unsettling memories of past human rights abuses and disappearances in Uganda. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/why-lukwago-s-abduction-evokes-memories-of-the-dark-days-5497708
The apprehension of Erias Lukwago, a prominent lawyer and advocate for opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, by individuals in military attire has sent ripples of unease across Uganda. This incident, where Lukwago was reportedly taken by armed men, has drawn parallels to the “dark days” of previous regimes, characterized by arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances.
The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, shared images of Lukwago in an undisclosed location, one showing him blindfolded. This comes shortly after Lukwago successfully obtained a court order compelling Gen. Kainerugaba to appear in court regarding allegations of threatening Dr. Besigye.
Lukwago’s situation mirrors that of numerous other Ugandans and foreign nationals allegedly abducted by armed groups, often utilizing vehicles known as “drones.” Opposition figures have voiced grave concerns, highlighting the cases of MP Margaret Etilu, NUP member Christopher Gody, and Bobi Wine’s bodyguard Edward Sebuufu, who have experienced similar ordeals, including prolonged detention without charge and allegations of torture.
Recent years have seen a pattern of such incidents. Opposition activist Agatha Nazziwa was allegedly held incommunicado despite a court order for her production. Sam Mugumya, another activist, reportedly vanished after being bundled into a vehicle by security personnel. Kenan nationals Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo were detained for weeks before being released, with President Museveni acknowledging their holding at Special Forces Command facilities.
These events have prompted comparisons to the repressive tactics employed during the Idi Amin and Milton Obote eras. Historical accounts, like Henry Kyemba’s “A State of Blood,” detail widespread disappearances and extrajudicial killings. The current spate of abductions, according to some officials, evokes a chilling sense of déjà vu, reminiscent of the human rights violations from 1962 to 1986.
The Uganda Law Society and other rights advocates have condemned the abduction, emphasizing the importance of due process and the rule of law. They argue that such actions undermine the legal fraternity and the broader principles of justice.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)