Lukwago is facing charges of misprision of treason following his reported abduction from his home in Wakaliga by armed security operatives. Prosecutors allege that the circumstances surrounding the incident are connected to the case now before the court.
Makindye Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera has dismissed a bail application filed by former Kampala Lord Mayor and lawyer Erias Lukwago, while ordering prison authorities to facilitate his immediate transfer to Mulago National Referral Hospital for specialized medical care.
In a ruling delivered through the court’s electronic system, Magistrate Basemera directed the Officer in Charge of Murchison Bay Prison and the Commissioner General of Prisons to ensure that Lukwago is referred to Mulago within 24 hours for a comprehensive medical assessment and any necessary treatment by appropriate specialists.
The magistrate said the decision was made after considering several factors, including the seriousness of the charges, ongoing investigations and the broader interests of justice.
According to the ruling, the court found that while Lukwago’s constitutional rights to dignity, health and access to medical care must be protected, the circumstances of the case did not justify granting him bail at this stage.
“The interests of justice, in my considered view, are better served by declining the application while simultaneously ensuring that the applicant’s constitutional right to dignity, health and access to appropriate medical care is fully protected through suitable directions of this Court,” part of the ruling states.
The court further ordered that Lukwago’s wife and one lawyer of his choice be granted reasonable access to him throughout the referral and treatment process and be allowed to receive copies of his medical records and reports.
Lukwago is facing charges of misprision of treason following his reported abduction from his home in Wakaliga by armed security operatives. Prosecutors allege that the circumstances surrounding the incident are connected to the case now before the court.
He has also been one of the lead lawyers representing former opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and other co-accused persons who are facing treason and related charges.
The ruling comes amid growing public attention over Lukwago’s health condition and the ongoing high-profile treason cases involving opposition figures.
Authorities are now expected to implement the court’s directives within the stipulated 24-hour period.