law 19 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Law students, ICRC decry 'inhumane' arrest of Erias Lukwago
Law students and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have condemned the recent arrest and detention of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, citing inhumane treatment. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/law-students-icrc-condemn-inhumane-arrest-of-erias-lukwago-5502746
Recent high-profile arrests in Uganda, including that of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, have drawn sharp criticism from law students and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Lukwago faces treason charges and was remanded after being arraigned in court.
Students participating in the National International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Moot Court Competition voiced strong objections to the methods employed in Lukwago’s apprehension and subsequent detention. “What happened to the former Lord Mayor was inhumane. No Ugandan deserves such treatment,” stated Ms. Nkalubo Oprah, a third-year law student.
She detailed concerns that Lukwago was “violently arrested from his home in the presence of his family, whisked away to an unknown location, and allegedly denied basic needs and medical care.” These actions, she argued, represent violations that should not occur against any individual.
The ICRC echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the humanitarian principles taught in legal education must be reflected in the conduct of state security agencies. “The knowledge we provide to these students should not remain confined to classrooms; it must manifest in the actions of security forces,” said Ms. Simona Ferrara, ICRC Regional Protection Coordinator.
Ferrara highlighted that these students are future leaders and legal professionals who are expected to uphold the law and protect human rights. The annual IHL Moot Court Competition, a collaboration between the ICRC Uganda Delegation and Makerere University, aims to equip students with practical skills in applying international humanitarian law to real-world scenarios.
“This platform enables students to understand the laws governing armed conflict and the principles that should guide all parties. It is one of the best ways to prepare future legal professionals,” commented Mr. Alex Luganda, ICRC National Legal Adviser, urging students to take such training seriously.