Lukwago Charged with Treason-Related Offence, Remanded

KAMPALA – Former Kampala Lord Mayor and president of the People's Front for Freedom (PFF), Erias Lukwago, has been charged with misprision of treason, a treason-related offence under Ugandan law.

Lukwago appeared before court on Wednesday following his arrest by security operatives earlier this week. Prosecutors allege that he had knowledge of activities linked to an alleged treason plot but failed to report the information to the relevant authorities.

The veteran opposition politician and lawyer denied the charge. Court subsequently remanded him as investigations continue, with the matter expected to return for further hearing.

The arrest has sparked debate among legal experts, human rights defenders, and opposition supporters, many of whom have questioned both the timing of the arrest and the manner in which it was carried out. Critics argue that the case could have wider implications for political freedoms and the independence of legal practitioners in Uganda.

Lukwago has been one of the lawyers representing opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, who is also facing treason-related charges. Some observers have linked the two cases, although authorities maintain that investigations are being conducted independently and in accordance with the law.

The Uganda Law Society and several civil society organisations have called for due process and respect for constitutional rights as the case proceeds through the courts.

The charge of misprision of treason is relatively uncommon in Uganda and carries serious legal consequences if proven. Legal analysts say the prosecution will need to demonstrate that the accused had prior knowledge of an alleged treasonous act and deliberately failed to disclose it to authorities.

As the case unfolds, attention is expected to focus on the evidence presented by prosecutors and the defence strategy adopted by Lukwago's legal team.

The next court appearance is expected in the coming days.