Muslim Lawyers Association Demands Respect for Rule of Law Amidst Lukwago Arrest Concerns

The Uganda Muslim Lawyers Association (UMLAS) has voiced strong concerns regarding the recent arrest and detention of prominent lawyer and political figure Erias Lukwago. UMLAS President Rashid Ssemambo urged security agencies and state authorities to rigorously uphold the rule of law and respect constitutional safeguards.

In a statement, UMLAS emphasized that all actions against citizens, including legal practitioners, must strictly adhere to the Ugandan Constitution and relevant laws. “We respectfully urge the responsible authorities to provide timely information regarding the status, location and legal basis of Counsel Lukwago’s detention,” Mr. Ssemambo stated.

The association highlighted worries about reports detailing a pre-dawn arrest involving alleged breaches of Mr. Lukwago’s home perimeter, questioning compliance with constitutional protections concerning arrest, search, privacy, and the sanctity of the home.

UMLAS also addressed public comments attributed to the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, on social media, suggesting such statements could be perceived as intimidating and could erode public trust in the justice system. Mr. Ssemambo stressed that the independence of the judiciary and legal profession relies on both impartiality and public confidence in established legal processes.

The association asserted that allegations of criminal conduct should be processed through lawful procedures and determined by competent courts. Citing Islamic principles of justice and fairness, UMLAS called upon the Uganda Law Society, the Judiciary, Parliament, civil society, religious leaders, and the public to remain vigilant in defending constitutionalism and due process.

“The protection of lawyers in the lawful discharge of their professional duties is not a privilege accorded to a few; it is an essential safeguard for every citizen who may one day seek justice before our courts,” the statement concluded.