The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has opposed a bail application filed by former Kampala Lord Mayor and President of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), Erias Lukwago, arguing that he is likely to abscond and interfere with witnesses if released.
In submissions filed before the Chief Magistrate’s Court at Makindye, the prosecution asked the court to dismiss Lukwago’s application, saying the charges against him are serious and have implications for national security.
Lukwago is facing a charge of misprision of treason under Section 25 of the Penal Code Act. The prosecution alleges that between 2021 and November 2024, in Uganda and Kenya, he failed to report information regarding an alleged plot by other individuals to overthrow the government through unlawful means.
The accused persons linked to the alleged plot include Dr Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya, whom Lukwago had represented as a lawyer before his arrest. The DPP acknowledges that Lukwago has a constitutional right to apply for bail but argues that granting bail is discretionary and requires the court to consider factors, including the likelihood of the accused returning for trial.
The state says the seriousness of the offence and the possible punishment of life imprisonment could motivate Lukwago to flee if released. “The nature and severity of the charges are catalysts for the accused to abscond from the jurisdiction of this honourable court in the event that he is released on bail,” the prosecution submitted.
Prosecutors also argued that offences involving treason and national security present risks of instability, violence, and disruption of public order. On Lukwago’s application for bail on medical grounds, the DPP disputed the claim that his health conditions require release from custody. Lukwago, through his lawyers led by Medard Lubega Sseggona, cited hypertension, gastritis, respiratory complications, and a spinal condition requiring specialised treatment.
However, the prosecution told the court that medical documents presented by the defence indicate that his previous spinal surgery was successful and that no evidence had been provided showing that his current condition cannot be managed by medical personnel at the Uganda Prisons Service. The state further raised concerns about possible interference with witnesses, arguing that Lukwago’s position as a senior lawyer, former legislator, former Lord Mayor, and political party leader gives him influence that could affect witnesses or investigations.
The prosecution also challenged the suitability of his proposed sureties, who include Gulu City Woman MP Betty Aol Ocan, Buikwe South MP Michael Lulume Bayiga, and Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze Bakireke.According to the DPP, the sureties live far from Lukwago’s residence and may not effectively supervise him or guarantee his attendance in court.
The prosecution also rejected Lukwago’s argument that he qualifies for bail due to advanced age, noting that the 2022 Bail Guidelines define advanced age as 60 years and above, while Lukwago is 56. “It is not true that the applicant is of advanced age,” the DPP submitted. The state has asked the court to keep Lukwago on remand until completion of the case.
Lukwago was arrested on June 15, 2026, and later remanded by Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera. He is expected to return to court as the prosecution updates the court on compliance with previous orders to file submissions.The defence and prosecution arguments will be considered before the court determines whether to grant bail.
The date for the ruling has not yet been set. The prosecution alleges that Lukwago and others failed to report information about an alleged plan involving several individuals, including Joel Wakayima, Frank Kiheri, Atukunda, Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya, and retired Dr Kizza Besigye, to commit treason.
The allegations arise from a wider treason case in which prosecutors claim opposition figures held meetings outside Uganda over a plan to overthrow the government. The accused persons have not yet been convicted, and the allegations remain subject to determination by the court. URN