Erias Lukwago Stable at Murchison Bay Prison Sick Bay, Uganda Prisons Confirms
The Uganda Prisons Service has confirmed that Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) president and senior lawyer Erias Lukwago is being held at the sick bay of Murchison Bay Prison, where officials say he remains in stable condition and is under medical observation.
Speaking to journalists, Uganda Prisons Service spokesperson Frank Baine said Lukwago was admitted to the prison’s referral medical unit following directives issued by the court during his recent appearance before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court.
“We have admitted him and he is currently in the sick bay. He is in a stable condition,” Baine said.
Lukwago Undergoing Medical Monitoring
According to prison authorities, Lukwago underwent an entry medical examination upon arrival at the facility, a standard procedure conducted for all inmates entering the prison system.
Baine explained that every prisoner is subjected to an initial health assessment to determine their medical condition and treatment needs.
“Every person who goes to our place has what we call an entry medical examination. So he could not be an exception,” he said.
However, prison officials declined to disclose details of the medical assessment or any findings, citing patient confidentiality and professional medical ethics.
Court Ordered Medical Assessment
The Uganda Prisons Service said Lukwago’s admission to the prison medical unit was in compliance with a court directive requiring authorities to assess his health condition, provide appropriate medical care, and submit a report if required.
“The person we received came from court, and court had specific instructions. We are following them to the letter,” Baine stated.
He emphasized that Murchison Bay Prison serves as a referral facility for inmates requiring specialized medical attention from across Uganda’s prison network.
Prison Authorities Defend Health Services
The update comes after concerns raised by Lukwago’s family and legal team regarding his health and the capacity of prison facilities to provide the specialized treatment they say he requires.
During his court appearance, Lukwago appeared physically weak, prompting his lawyers to request that he be admitted to a hospital rather than remanded to prison custody.
Despite those concerns, prison authorities insist that the institution is equipped to manage inmates with medical conditions and that all prisoners receive equal treatment regardless of their political status or public profile.
Baine dismissed suggestions that prison medical services would be unable to handle Lukwago’s condition.
“If you think we are going to fail, that is in your mind and it will die there. We are managing,” he said.
Medical Details Remain Confidential
Responding to questions about specific tests conducted on the FDC leader, Baine reiterated that medical information remains confidential and cannot be disclosed publicly without proper authorization.
“When you go to the doctor for an examination, do you put your information in the newspaper?” he asked.
Lukwago Expected Back in Court
Prison officials have indicated that Lukwago is expected to return to court on Monday as scheduled.
Baine said the Uganda Prisons Service will comply with all court directives and ensure that Lukwago is presented before the court while under appropriate medical supervision.
“We shall take him on Monday in the condition that he will be in,” he said.
Debate Over Prison Health Care Continues
Lukwago’s detention and medical status have reignited public debate over the capacity of Uganda’s prison health system to manage inmates with complex medical needs.
While prison authorities maintain that Murchison Bay Prison and other correctional facilities are capable of providing adequate healthcare, critics argue that some detainees may require treatment at specialized external medical facilities.
For now, Uganda Prisons Service says Lukwago remains under observation at Murchison Bay Prison’s sick bay as legal proceedings against him continue.
