– Kampala, Uganda
Former Kampala mayor and chairman of the People's Freedom Front, Erias Lukwago, was indicted today in the Makindye Magistrates' Court on charges of covering up treason. The indictment alleges that he had knowledge of plans to illegally change the government but failed to report them. Lukwago denied the charges, which carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Lukwago was arrested on June 15 by Special Forces Command officers at his home in Wakaliga, Rubaga Division. The arrest occurred as he was preparing to deliver court documents to the Chief of the Armed Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of President Museveni. Lukwago is also the lead lawyer for detained opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who faces separate treason charges.
After pleading not guilty, the court ordered Lukwago to be held in pretrial detention at Luzira Jail. He will appear in court again on June 22 for a bail hearing. This development has drawn criticism from opposition figures and human rights observers, who believe the case is politically motivated.
This latest case exacerbates concerns about growing democratic insecurity in Uganda ahead of the elections. The arrest and charges are being closely monitored both nationally and internationally.