Breaking!! Erias Lukwago Charged With Misprision Of Treason , Sent To Luzira

Former Kampala Lord Mayor and prominent human rights lawyer Erias Lukwago has been formally charged with misprision of treason and remanded, marking the latest development in a case that has drawn significant public and political attention in Uganda.

Lukwago, who has also been part of the legal team representing opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye in ongoing court proceedings, appeared before court after being transferred from Kira Division Police Station to Makindye under tight security.

The offence of misprision of treason generally refers to the alleged failure by an individual to report knowledge of plans to unlawfully overthrow or change the government to the relevant authorities. Lukwago denied the charge when it was read to him.

His arrest and subsequent arraignment followed hours of uncertainty over his whereabouts after he was reportedly driven away from Kira Division Police Station shortly after 2 p.m. Supporters, relatives, journalists and political allies had gathered outside the station awaiting updates on his detention before learning that he had been taken to Makindye for court proceedings.

The charge places Lukwago among several individuals facing allegations linked to the same case. According to statements shared publicly by Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura, those named alongside him include Dr. Kizza Besigye, Frank Kihehere, Joel Wakayima and Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulega, among others.

In a social media post, Nyanjura stated: “Salongo Erias Lukwago has been charged with misprision of treason alongside Frank Kihehere, Joel Wakayima, Dr Kizza Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulega among others. His lawyers led by Hon Ssegona are now applying for bail on health grounds, we wait to see whether bail will be granted.”

Despite the application for bail reportedly being advanced on health-related grounds, Lukwago was ultimately remanded following his appearance in court.

Earlier in the day, Doreen Nyanjura, who previously served as Lukwago’s deputy during his tenure as Kampala Lord Mayor, disclosed that he had been unexpectedly removed from Kira Division Police Station around lunchtime and transported toward Makindye.

“The former Kampala Lord Mayor was driven from Kira Division Police Station a few minutes past 2 p.m. toward Makindye,” she said, adding that supporters and members of the media had been stationed at the police facility following reports of his detention.

Lukwago’s latest legal troubles have attracted widespread attention because of his long career as one of Uganda’s most prominent opposition politicians and constitutional lawyers. He previously served as Lord Mayor of Kampala and has represented several high-profile political figures in court, including Dr. Besigye.

The charges also come amid heightened scrutiny surrounding cases involving opposition politicians and government critics, with legal observers closely monitoring developments in the matter.

Authorities have not publicly released detailed particulars supporting the allegations beyond the charge of misprision of treason. As the proceedings continue, the case is expected to remain under close public observation due to the prominence of the accused individuals and the broader political significance attached to the matter.

Lukwago maintains his innocence and has denied the allegations brought against him. Further court appearances are expected as the judicial process moves forward following his remand.