Opposition Demands Release of Lukwago Amidst Abduction Condemnation

The abduction of Erias Lukwago, a prominent lawyer for opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and former Kampala Lord Mayor, has sparked widespread condemnation from various opposition parties. Lukwago was reportedly taken from his home by individuals in military attire, an action later confirmed by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who stated Lukwago was in military custody.

This incident is viewed by opposition groups as a continuation of a pattern of targeting political opponents. Lukwago was allegedly en route to serve Gen. Muhoozi with a court order related to a human rights violation case filed by Dr. Besigye when he was apprehended. The CDF’s confirmation on social media, including remarks about Lukwago being in the “basement,” has drawn strong criticism.

Robert Kyagulanyi, leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), denounced the abduction as “absurd” and reminiscent of past actions against his associates. He urged resistance against this “brazen impunity.” David Lewis Rubongoya, NUP’s Secretary General, called for Lukwago’s immediate release and urged all “people of good conscience” to condemn the lawlessness.

Patrick Amuriat Oboi, president of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), stated that the country has reached a “climax” in the erosion of the rule of law, likening the situation to past periods of disappearances. He expressed concern that such actions aim to instill fear and subdue the population, which he believes is detrimental to the nation’s future, especially given Gen. Muhoozi’s presidential ambitions.

Alice Alaso, Secretary General of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), described the abduction as a return to a “reign of terror” and a sign of the current regime’s intolerance towards criticism. She questioned whether President Museveni still holds firm control, suggesting that the CDF appears to be acting with unchecked authority, making “nobody safe.”

Parties like the Justice Forum (Jeema) have demanded Lukwago’s unconditional release within 24 hours, emphasizing that no one is above the law and calling for Ugandans to defend the nation’s dignity. The events are often contrasted with the dark days of the 1970s, raising fears of a regression into oppressive political practices.

Source: https://www.monitor.ug/uganda/news/national/opposition-unite-against-lukwago-s-abduction-5499194