Law Society Slams 'Politically Motivated' Treason Charges Against Lukwago

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has voiced its “strongest protest, condemnation and complaint” against the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for proceeding with treason-related charges against prominent lawyer and former Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago.

According to the ULS, these charges are not a legitimate criminal prosecution but a “gross abuse of process” designed to intimidate Lukwago. The society alleges that the charges are directly linked to Lukwago’s role as legal counsel for opposition figures Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale in an ongoing treason trial.

The ULS stated that Lukwago was allegedly abducted from his home by UPDF operatives while attempting to serve court documents related to the Besigye case. The society views this action, along with the prosecution, as unconstitutional political persecution and a clear violation of the DPP’s duty to act impartially.

Dubbing the situation “classic lawfare,” the ULS argued that using criminal justice institutions to target defense teams of political opponents undermines the rule of law. They emphasized that serving court documents or defending clients cannot constitute treason.

The ULS warned that an attack on one advocate is an attack on the entire legal profession and demanded the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the charges. They are also seeking full disclosure about Lukwago’s treatment while allegedly in detention.

Lukwago was formally charged with misprision of treason, which involves failing to report knowledge of treasonous activities. Prosecutors claim he failed to inform authorities about an alleged treasonous plot between 2021 and 2024. Lukwago has denied the charges, asserting that the individuals mentioned were his clients.

His defense team has applied for bail, citing his fixed place of residence, his status as a practicing advocate with no history of absconding, and serious medical conditions including chronic gastritis, a herniated cervical disc requiring past surgery, respiratory complications, and hypertension that has reportedly worsened due to his detention.

The court is expected to rule on the bail application on Monday, June 22, 2026.

Source: Nile Post