KAMPALA, Uganda — The Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court has denied a bail application by former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, ordering that he remain on remand as investigations into charges of misprision of treason continue.
In a ruling delivered on Tuesday, Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera agreed with the prosecution that the nature of the allegations and the status of ongoing investigations justified keeping the accused in custody.
The State argued that releasing Lukwago at this stage could interfere with witnesses and compromise ongoing inquiries. Prosecutors further submitted that the offence of misprision of treason is a serious charge under Ugandan law and warranted caution by the court.
Lukwago’s legal team, led by Medard Lubega Sseggona, had urged the court to grant bail, citing his status as a senior advocate and public figure with a known place of residence, substantial sureties and a history of complying with court processes.
The defence also raised concerns about Lukwago’s health and wellbeing while in detention, arguing that he was not a flight risk and should be allowed to prepare his defence from outside prison.
However, Chief Magistrate Basemera ruled in favour of the prosecution and ordered that the accused remain on remand pending further investigations.
Lukwago was charged last week after prosecutors alleged that he failed to report information relating to an alleged plot to overthrow the government. He denied the accusations when he first appeared before court.
The case has attracted widespread public and political interest in Uganda and across the region, with opposition supporters and legal observers closely following the proceedings.
The matter also comes amid controversy surrounding the denied entry into Uganda of Kenyan lawyer and former Justice Minister Martha Karua, who had travelled to Kampala ahead of the bail hearing.
Lukwago is expected to return to court later this month for further mention of the case as investigations continue.
