news 18 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Lukwago's Harrowing 48 Hours in Secret Detention
Former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has recounted his distressing experience during 48 hours of detention, during which he was held incommunicado and charged with misprision of treason. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lukwago-s-48-hours-in-detention-5500438
Erias Lukwago, a prominent opposition figure and lawyer for Dr. Kizza Besigye, described a deeply unsettling period of detention following his abduction by armed operatives last Monday. He reported being held in an undisclosed location for two days before being formally charged with misprision of treason.
In an interview, Lukwago’s son, Fahad, relayed his father’s account of the ordeal. Lukwago was reportedly blindfolded and had his suit removed, leaving him in only a shirt and shorts. He was subsequently shaved and confined to a small room, likened to a psychiatric ward, furnished solely with a plastic chair.
Due to a previous spinal surgery, Lukwago experienced significant pain as he was unable to lie down flat for two consecutive nights, resorting to using his jacket as a makeshift pillow while seated. He also reported experiencing breathing difficulties and acid reflux exacerbated by the conditions.
During his detention, Lukwago was offered an NRM-branded T-shirt to replace his soiled clothing, which he reluctantly accepted. His family expressed concern over his treatment, particularly the denial of necessary medication for his medical conditions upon his apprehension.
The abduction itself was described as forceful, with operatives entering his home after scaling a perimeter wall and cutting through barbed wire. Lukwago was taken away in a vehicle commonly known as a “drone.” His legal team and supporters have condemned the charges against him as politically motivated.
Lukwago later appeared at the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court to face the misprision of treason charges. His detention and subsequent charging have drawn condemnation from various quarters, with many viewing it as unjust treatment of a human rights advocate and legal professional.