Proceedings in the case against former Kampala Lord Mayor, and opposition lawyer Erias Lukwago were on Tuesday adjourned to July 9, 2026, after the Uganda Prisons Service informed the court that he could not be produced because he is undergoing specialized medical investigations and treatment.
The development comes just days after Lukwago was transferred from Luzira Prison to following a court order directing prison authorities to facilitate treatment for his worsening chronic health conditions.
Speaking to journalists after the closed-door court session, Lukwago’s lawyer, Medard Lubega Sseggona , said prison authorities formally notified the court that their client was receiving medical care and was therefore unable to appear for the scheduled mention of his case.
Lukwago is facing a charge of misprision of treason under Section 25 of the Penal Code Act.
According to the prosecution, between 2021 and 2024, Lukwago allegedly had knowledge of a plot involving detained opposition figure and others to overthrow the government but failed to report the alleged plan to the relevant authorities.
The prominent opposition lawyer, who also serves as legal counsel for Dr. Besigye, was arrested in mid-June 2026 after allegedly attempting to serve legal documents on . Although his application for bail was denied, the court acknowledged concerns about his deteriorating health and ordered that he receive specialized medical treatment.
Court records presented by the defence indicate that Lukwago has been battling severe back complications, including a spinal disc condition that requires an orthopedic mattress and specialized care unavailable within the prison facility. His lawyers further revealed that medical tests showed a decline in his white blood cell count, raising concerns about a weakened immune system and increased vulnerability to infections.
The defence also alleged that while in custody, Lukwago was exposed to additional health risks, including being housed near tuberculosis patients in Luzira Prison’s medical ward.
Earlier, the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court deferred its ruling on Lukwago’s bail application, citing procedural and security considerations, and indicated that the decision would instead be delivered electronically through the ECCMIS system.
Lukwago’s arrest, continued detention, and subsequent transfer to Mulago National Referral Hospital have sparked widespread public debate over detention conditions for high-profile suspects and the handling of politically sensitive cases in Uganda.
Prison authorities have inform court that the former Lord mayor Erias Lukwago was weak and unwell. #BTMtvbreakingnews #BTMtvupdates pic.twitter.com/eNpXPYfQld
— BTM Breaking News (@btmbreakingnews) June 30, 2026
The matter will return to court on July 9, subject to Lukwago’s medical condition and availability.
