By Kabuye Ronald
Former Kampala Lord Mayor and People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) president Erias Lukwago has been committed to the High Court for trial on a charge of misprision of treason, with his deteriorating health emerging as a central concern during proceedings at the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court.
Lukwago, who missed his previous court appearance due to reported illness, was brought to court under tight security on Thursday. He appeared visibly frail throughout the proceedings, prompting his lawyers to renew calls for urgent specialised medical treatment.
The defence team, led by Busiro East MP Medard Lubega Ssegona, told court that Lukwago continues to suffer complications linked to previous spinal surgery, hypertension, respiratory problems, acid reflux and balance disorders. They argued that his condition requires specialised treatment in India, which they say cannot be adequately provided while he remains in custody.
The lawyers reiterated their request after a medical assessment by Mulago National Referral Hospital had earlier been ordered following concerns over Lukwago’s health.
Despite the defence’s concerns, the prosecution completed committal proceedings, paving the way for the case to be heard by the High Court.
Lukwago is accused of misprision of treason, an offence under Section 25 of the Penal Code Act, which relates to knowingly concealing information about an intended act of treason and failing to report it to the relevant authorities within a reasonable time.
According to prosecutors, Lukwago, in his capacity as president of the PFF, allegedly became aware of information concerning an alleged plot to overthrow the Ugandan government by force but failed to report it.
The prosecution alleges that Lukwago knew of the travels of PFF founder Dr Kizza Besigye and his associate Hajj Obeid Lutale to Nairobi, Kenya, where they allegedly met individuals suspected of facilitating the alleged plot.
State prosecutors further contend that electronic evidence, including WhatsApp communications, will form part of the prosecution’s case before the High Court.
The allegations stem from meetings said to have taken place in Nairobi in late 2024, where prosecutors claim discussions were held about acquiring weapons and planning activities aimed at overthrowing the government. The prosecution also alleges that Lukwago knew other individuals had sought assistance in the alleged scheme but did not notify security authorities.
Dr Besigye and Lutale, who were arrested in November 2024 after being seized in Nairobi and returned to Uganda, are separately facing similar charges before the High Court.
With the committal proceedings concluded, Lukwago will now await the scheduling of his High Court trial, while his legal team continues to press for permission for him to receive specialised treatment abroad.
