Heavy Security at Makindye Court as Lukwago Awaits Bail Ruling

Makindye Chief Magistrates Court was a hive of activity and heavily secured on Monday as former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago prepared to appear for the mention of his misprision of treason case. Personnel from the Joint Anti-Terrorism Task Force and the Field Force Unit were visibly present to manage the situation.

By early morning, hundreds of Lukwago’s supporters had arrived, filling the courtroom and surrounding areas, underscoring the significant public interest in the proceedings. The case was scheduled for mention before Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera, with the expectation that the prosecution’s response to Lukwago’s bail application would be presented.

Lukwago, who is also the president of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), has applied for bail citing serious medical conditions including hypertension, gastritis, and respiratory issues that he states require specialized care. His defence team, led by Medard Lubega Sseggona, was present, though court proceedings had not commenced by late morning.

The prosecution, however, has urged the court to deny bail, raising concerns that Lukwago might abscond given the gravity of the treason-related charge, which carries a potential life sentence. They also questioned the suitability of his proposed sureties.

Several prominent political figures and staunch supporters, including those associated with Dr. Kizza Besigye, were in attendance. Notable attendees included Joseph Kabuleta, MP Joseph Ssewungu, former MP Francis Mwijukye, and former Leader of the Opposition Wafula Oguttu, alongside Lukwago’s family members.

The charge of misprision of treason against Lukwago alleges his failure to report information he possessed concerning the alleged treasonous plans of Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya. This charge is linked to the ongoing treason case involving Besigye and Lutale, for which Lukwago serves as part of their defence team. Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua, also part of the defence, was reportedly deported from Uganda on the same day.

This report is based on information from the Daily Monitor.