KAMPALA, Uganda — July 7, 2026 — Former Kampala Lord Mayor and President of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), Erias Lukwago, has been further remanded until July 16, 2026, despite his lawyers presenting medical reports indicating that he requires specialized treatment, preferably in India, where he previously underwent spinal surgery.
The decision was made by the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court during proceedings on Tuesday as Lukwago continues to face a charge of misprision of treason in connection with the state’s case against opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused.
According to journalist Agather Atuhaire, the defence presented medical reports from Mulago National Referral Hospital showing that Lukwago’s condition requires advanced medical care outside Uganda, with India identified as the preferred destination because he previously received treatment there.
Despite the medical submissions, the court ordered that Lukwago remain on remand until July 16 as investigations continue.
Lukwago has been hospitalized at Mulago National Referral Hospital for the past several days after prison authorities informed the court that he was too ill to attend earlier proceedings. The Uganda Prisons Service told the court that he has been undergoing specialized medical investigations and treatment, prompting previous adjournments of the case.
His legal team, led by Medard Lubega Sseggona, has repeatedly expressed concern over his deteriorating health. The lawyers say Lukwago is suffering from a serious spinal condition involving a suspected dislocated disc, experiences severe pain, and requires treatment beyond what is currently available locally. They have maintained that specialists who previously treated him in India are best placed to continue his care.
In earlier court appearances, the defence also warned that Lukwago’s prolonged detention posed additional health risks, citing concerns about his weakened condition and vulnerability to infections. The court had previously directed prison authorities to facilitate appropriate medical care, including allowing his family to provide an orthopedic mattress while in custody.
Lukwago was charged with misprision of treason in June after prosecutors alleged that he knew of an alleged plot to overthrow the government but failed to report it to the authorities. He denies the allegations. The charge is linked to the broader treason case involving Dr. Besigye, Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya and Capt. Denis Oola.
The repeated adjournments have intensified concern among Lukwago’s supporters and opposition leaders, who argue that his worsening health should be given priority. The prosecution has maintained that investigations are ongoing, while the court continues to balance the progress of the criminal case with updates on the former Lord Mayor’s medical condition.
