Uganda Prisons spokesperson Frank Baine has confirmed receipt of a court order directing the immediate transfer of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago from Luzira Prison to Mulago National Referral Hospital for specialized medical treatment.
According to the directive, Lukwago is to be transferred without delay to receive treatment for chronic health conditions that have reportedly worsened during his detention.
Lukwago, a prominent opposition lawyer and counsel for detained politician Dr Kizza Besigye, was arrested in mid-June 2026 and charged with misprision of treason after allegedly attempting to serve legal documents on Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Although the court denied him bail, it acknowledged concerns over his deteriorating health and ordered medical intervention.
Court records and submissions from the defence indicate that Lukwago has been suffering from severe back complications, including a spinal disc problem, requiring an orthopedic mattress and specialized care not available in prison.
His lawyers also told court that his immunity had weakened, with medical tests reportedly showing a drop in white blood cell count, raising fears of increased vulnerability to infections.
Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court recently deferred its ruling on Lukwago’s bail application, citing procedural and security considerations. The court instead indicated that its decision would be delivered electronically through the ECCMIS system within 24 hours.
The defence team, led by Counsel Medard Lubega Sseggona, expressed concern that Lukwago’s condition continues to deteriorate while on remand, urging the judiciary to prioritize his medical needs.
During proceedings, the defence further alleged that Lukwago had been exposed to health risks while in custody, including proximity to tuberculosis patients within Luzira Prison’s medical ward.
These claims sparked public debate, with supporters calling for urgent intervention to safeguard his health.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has opposed Lukwago’s release on bail, arguing that the charges carry a possible life sentence and raising concerns that he could interfere with investigations or fail to appear for trial.
The prosecution maintains that the case remains under active investigation.
Authorities allege that between 2021 and 2024, Lukwago and others still at large had knowledge of an alleged plot involving Dr Kizza Besigye and associates to overthrow the government but failed to report it to relevant authorities.
He was formally charged under Section 25 of the Penal Code Act.
The case is scheduled to return to court on June 30, 2026, for mention, regardless of the outcome of the bail application and medical transfer process.
Lukwago’s arrest, continued detention, and now his medical transfer order have triggered widespread public debate over detention conditions for high-profile suspects and the broader handling of politically sensitive cases in Uganda.
