news 22 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Lukwago awaits bail ruling amid health concerns in prison
Former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago's bail application hearing concluded, with the Makindye Chief Magistrate's Court set to deliver its ruling at 2 PM. His defense team highlighted his deteriorating health and potential exposure to tuberculosis as critical reasons for his release. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lukwago-awaits-2pm-bail-ruling-as-defence-cites-worsening-health-in-prison-5504788
Erias Lukwago, former Kampala Lord Mayor and president of the People’s Front for Freedom, is awaiting a crucial bail ruling from the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court, scheduled for 2 PM today. Lukwago faces a charge of misprision of treason.
His legal team, led by Medard Lubega Ssegona, argued that Lukwago’s health has significantly worsened during his incarceration. They cited an accelerated dislocated disc, causing excruciating pain that cannot be adequately treated within the prison system. The defense emphasized the need for an MRI, a service unavailable in Luzira prison, and pointed to ongoing physiotherapy yielding no positive results.
Further concerns were raised regarding the risk of tuberculosis (TB) infection. Ssegona informed the court that the TB ward is located near Lukwago’s cell, and a TB patient was temporarily housed in his vicinity. Recent medical tests indicating a decline in Lukwago’s white blood cell count amplify the danger of any potential infection.
The prosecution, represented by State Attorney Barbra Masinde, maintained its opposition to bail, relying on previous submissions that highlighted the seriousness of the misprision of treason charge, potential national security risks, and the possibility of witness interference. The suitability of Lukwago’s sureties was also questioned.
The court was informed that both the defense and prosecution had complied with directives to file written submissions. Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera acknowledged the filings and adjourned to deliver the ruling this afternoon. The defense expressed hope for an expedited and positive ruling, but alternatively prayed for Lukwago to be transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital for necessary medical tests if bail is not granted today.
This bail application has garnered significant public interest, with Lukwago produced in court mid-morning amidst anticipation. The court previously heard the state’s opposition to bail on seven grounds, including national security concerns and suitability of sureties.