KAMPALA, Uganda – Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) leader and former presidential candidate Mugisha Muntu has called on President Yoweri Museveni to steer Uganda in a new direction following the arrest and alleged mistreatment of lawyer and opposition politician Erias Lukwago.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Muntu described the circumstances surrounding Lukwago’s arrest as a worrying indication of declining respect for the rule of law and constitutional governance in Uganda.
Lukwago, a senior lawyer and former Kampala Lord Mayor, was reportedly arrested on Monday after armed security operatives allegedly raided his residence in Wakaliga, Rubaga Division, Kampala. Reports indicate that documents were confiscated before he was taken into custody.
The incident generated widespread public debate after Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba shared a social media post allegedly showing Lukwago blindfolded in detention. The image sparked criticism from opposition leaders, lawyers, and human rights activists who questioned the legality of the arrest and detention.
Reacting to the developments, Muntu condemned the treatment of Lukwago, arguing that targeting a lawyer while carrying out professional duties undermines both the legal profession and the justice system.
“The current trend in our politics is quite worrying. Abducting Hon. Erias Lukwago, a lawyer in the course of conducting his legal duties of representing a client, torturing and humiliating him is not only a sign of contempt for the rule of law but also for the citizenry,” Muntu said.
Lukwago is part of the legal team representing opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye in a case involving allegations surrounding Besigye’s arrest in Kenya and subsequent legal proceedings. The matter is expected to return to court after respondents file their defence later this month.
Muntu warned against the use of fear, intimidation, and coercion as tools of governance, saying history has repeatedly shown that such approaches are unsustainable.
“Fear and terror as tools of control may work for a while, but they always have limits. History has shown us that this route is untenable and never ends well,” he stated.
The retired army general further argued that responsibility for the country’s direction ultimately rests with President Museveni in his capacity as Head of State and Commander-in-Chief.
“At this point, the buck stops with the President and Commander-in-Chief,” Muntu said, adding that Uganda’s institutions must be strengthened to safeguard constitutional order and accountability.
He urged President Museveni to depart from patterns that have characterized previous governments and embrace reforms that promote justice, respect for human rights, and democratic governance.
“You have to choose which direction the country takes, Mr. President. It is never too late. Will you maintain the route all past governments took despite the inevitable consequences, or choose a new route?” Muntu asked.
The arrest of Lukwago has continued to draw reactions from political parties, legal associations, civil society organizations, and human rights defenders, many of whom have called for transparency regarding his detention and respect for due process.
The incident has also intensified national debate about civil liberties, political freedoms, and the role of security agencies in Uganda’s governance landscape as calls for accountability continue to grow.
