Erias Lukwago's Bail Application Denied by Makindye Court

Former Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago, will remain in Luzira Prison after his bail application was denied by the Chief Magistrate’s Court of Makindye. Chief Magistrate Sarah Anne Basemera delivered the ruling electronically on June 23, 2026, ending a period of anticipation for Lukwago’s supporters.

Lukwago, 56, faces charges of misprision of treason, accused of withholding knowledge of treasonous plots involving prominent opposition figures between 2021 and November 2024. The alleged plots reportedly involved individuals like Dr. Kizza Besigye and occurred in various locations, including Kampala and Nairobi, Kenya.

His defense team, led by Medard Lubega Sseggona, argued for bail, highlighting Lukwago’s presumption of innocence, his fixed place of residence, and significant medical conditions including hypertension and complications from previous neck surgery.

State prosecutors had strongly opposed the bail, citing national security concerns, the gravity of the offense, and the potential for Lukwago’s influence to disrupt ongoing investigations and endanger witnesses. They also raised objections concerning the sureties presented, who included Members of Parliament Betty Aol Ocan, Michael Phillip Lulume Bayiga, and Betty Bakireke Nambooze.

In her ruling, Chief Magistrate Basemera validated Lukwago’s sureties and place of residence, dismissing the prosecution’s objections. However, she ultimately denied bail, emphasizing the serious nature of the treason-related charge and the need to allow state investigators to conclude their work without interference. The court noted the offense’s potential to undermine constitutional order and the international scope of the alleged acts.

While acknowledging Lukwago’s documented medical issues, the court stated that these alone did not warrant immediate release, as access to necessary medical care within the prison system is provided. Lukwago is expected back in court on June 30 for the mention of his case.

Source: https://www.monitor.uganda/uganda/news/national/lukwago-s-bail-application-rejected-5506412