Concerns over the health and welfare of former Kampala City Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago intensified on Wednesday after a court remanded him on charges of misprision of treason, while his lawyers and family raised alarm over restrictions on access to the opposition politician during his detention.
Lukwago appeared before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court and denied the charge of misprision of treason, which relates to the alleged failure to report knowledge of plans to overthrow or unlawfully change government authority.
The court remanded him until June 22.
However, much of the attention surrounding the proceedings centered on Lukwago’s health condition and the circumstances under which he was held following his arrest on June 15.
His lawyer, Medard Lubega Ssegona, told court that Lukwago suffers from a longstanding back condition and requested that, should the court decline to grant him bail, he be allowed to use an orthopedic mattress while in custody.
The defense team also sought bail on health grounds, arguing that the former Lord Mayor requires continued medical attention.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Mathias Ssenyondo, Lukwago’s personal physician, expressed frustration after allegedly being denied access to his patient at Kira Division Police Station.
Speaking to journalists outside the police facility, Dr. Ssenyondo said he had gone to assess Lukwago’s medical condition but was unable to do so after security personnel reportedly prevented him from entering.
The physician’s concerns were echoed by family members and supporters who gathered outside the police station seeking access to the detained politician.
Among them was Lukwago’s wife, Zawedde Lubwama Lukwago, who was seen waiting outside the police premises amid reports that access to the detainee had been heavily restricted.
Francis Mwijukye, Deputy Treasurer of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), said a group of friends and supporters had been denied entry despite earlier indications that visitors would be allowed to see Lukwago.
According to Mwijukye, only Lukwago’s lawyer and his wife were eventually granted access.
The developments have sparked criticism from opposition leaders who argue that detainees should be afforded access to family members, lawyers and medical personnel in accordance with the law.
Lukwago’s detention has attracted significant public attention because of his role as lead counsel for opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, who is facing separate treason proceedings.
Authorities have since linked Lukwago to the same case, charging him alongside several other accused persons, including Dr. Besigye.
Supporters of the former Lord Mayor have questioned both the manner of his arrest and the restrictions placed on visits during his detention.
As legal proceedings continue, attention is likely to remain focused not only on the treason-related allegations but also on concerns regarding Lukwago’s health and access to medical care while in custody.
The case resumes on June 22.
