By Nanteza Ruth Walusimbi
KAMPALA
Former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago was on Wednesday, 17th June 2026 arraigned before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court and charged with misprision of treason, days after his arrest by security operatives from his home in Wakaliga.
The charge alleges that between 2021 and 2024, in both Kenya and Kampala, Lukwago failed to provide information to authorities regarding an alleged treasonous plot involving several individuals named by the prosecution.
Court heard that the offence of misprision of treason relates to the failure by a person with knowledge of treasonous activities to report such information to the relevant authorities.
Responding to the charge, Lukwago denied any wrongdoing and maintained that the individuals cited by the prosecution were his clients.
The state informed court that investigations into the matter are still ongoing and requested that the case be adjourned for mention as inquiries continue.
Lukwago appeared in court with a team of lawyers that included Mathias Mpuuga, Muhammad Nsereko, Medard Sseggona, Abubakar Ssekanjako, Lawrence Kabuye, Proscovia Kunihira and Mariam Lutale.
Lawyers cited a number of medical conditions that they said require urgent and specialized attention.
According to the bail application, Lukwago suffers from chronic gastritis that requires continuous medical supervision, including regulated meals, medication and regular monitoring.
Court heard that he has a history of a herniated cervical disc involving the C5 and C6 vertebrae and previously underwent surgery in India, where a metal implant was inserted into his cervical spine.
The legal team further informed the court that Lukwago suffers from respiratory complications that require a well-ventilated environment and regular medical observation, as well as hypertension that they said had worsened following his detention.
According to the defence, some of the conditions were previously assessed by medical specialists who recommended treatment and management at specialized facilities, including hospitals in India and Nairobi.
Three prominent legislators were presented as sureties for Lukwago’s bail application: Betty Aol Ocan, Lulume Bayiga and Betty Nambooze Bakireke. He was however, remanded to Luzira Prison until Monday, June 22, 2026 for mention of his case and ruling on bail application.
