Security Forces Surround, Abduct Former Kampala Mayor Lukwago

Former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago reported that his residence in Wakaliga, Kampala, was surrounded by security operatives early Tuesday morning. According to Lukwago’s verified Facebook posts, individuals in military and civilian clothes, arriving in multiple vehicles including “drones” (minibuses commonly used in abductions), scaled his perimeter wall and entered his compound. Lukwago stated he was preparing to take his children to school when the siege began.

Eyewitnesses and reports indicate that operatives identified as belonging to the Special Forces Command (SFC) were involved. After being denied entry through the main gate, they allegedly jumped over the fence and proceeded to Lukwago’s house, from where he was reportedly taken to an undisclosed location.

The abduction has raised significant questions due to its timing. Lukwago is a key lawyer representing opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye in a high-profile treason case. This legal action includes an application filed by Dr. Besigye against the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for alleged death threats made on social media. Lukwago was reportedly attempting to serve Gen. Kainerugaba with court documents related to this lawsuit.

Dr. Besigye’s application details several social media posts by Gen. Kainerugaba, which the opposition leader claims prejudice his right to a fair trial. The lawsuit also addresses events surrounding Dr. Besigye’s alleged unlawful extradition from Kenya. The timing of Lukwago’s abduction has led many to believe it is directly linked to his role in representing Dr. Besigye and attempting to serve Gen. Kainerugaba with legal papers. Activists and political figures have condemned the incident, highlighting it as another instance of alleged abductions by state security agencies in Uganda.

Source: https://www.monitor.ug/uganda/news/national/how-security-laid-siege-to-lukwago-s-residence-5497760