Erias Lukwago Moved to Mulago Hospital for Specialized Care

Former Kampala Lord Mayor and President of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), Erias Lukwago, was transferred from Luzira Murchison Bay Prison to Mulago National Referral Hospital on Thursday morning for specialized medical treatment.

The move came after a court directive issued on Tuesday. Lukwago’s lawyer, Abubaker Ssekanjako, confirmed the transfer on Thursday afternoon. He noted that prison authorities had followed the order from the Makindye Chief Magistrates Court.

According to Ssekanjako, Lukwago’s health had worsened while he was on remand. Prison officials had been managing his condition primarily with painkillers, even though he needed more thorough medical care. The lawyer described his client’s situation as worrying and said he had updated Lukwago’s family, including his wife and son, as well as lead counsel Medard Lubega Sseggona.

Uganda Prisons spokesperson, Senior Commissioner of Prisons Frank Baine, had not responded to inquiries by the time the report was filed.

Makindye Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera denied Lukwago’s bail application but instructed prison authorities to take him to Mulago National Referral Hospital within 24 hours for a full medical assessment and treatment. The court specifically directed the Officer in Charge of Murchison Bay Prison and the Commissioner General of Prisons to ensure he receives the required specialized care.

The ruling also granted Lukwago’s wife and a chosen advocate reasonable access during his treatment. They will be allowed to obtain copies of medical reports and specialists’ recommendations, in line with prison rules and security considerations. Doctors at Mulago are expected to evaluate his condition thoroughly and submit a detailed report covering the diagnosis, recommended tests, treatment plan, medication, and follow-up care for the court.

Lukwago, aged 56, had sought bail partly on health grounds. He told the court he suffers from hypertension, gastritis, respiratory issues, and a spinal condition that requires specialist attention. However, the magistrate cited ongoing investigations and his prominent status as a senior advocate, former Lord Mayor, and political leader as reasons for denying bail.

Lukwago was arrested on June 15, 2026, and faces charges of misprision of treason. Prosecutors claim that between 2021 and November 2024, in both Uganda and Kenya, he was aware of an alleged plot by his clients — Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya — to overthrow the government but did not report it or act to prevent the offence. He has denied the charges and maintains his innocence. He remains on remand and is scheduled to appear in court again on June 30, 2026

Read Next Article