Court Defers Erias Lukwago Bail Ruling as Defence Raises Health Concerns
KAMPALA, Uganda – The Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court has postponed its ruling on the bail application of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, leaving the prominent lawyer and politician in custody as the court considers submissions from both the defence and prosecution.
Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera adjourned the matter to 2:00 p.m. after hearing arguments from both sides regarding Lukwago’s request for release on medical grounds.
Defence Cites Deteriorating Health Condition
Lukwago’s legal team, led by Medard Ssegona and supported by lawyers Joseph Ssewungu, Miriam Nalwoga, Mathias Mpuuga, and Proscovia Kunihira, argued that their client’s health has significantly worsened while on remand at Murchison Bay Prison.
According to Ssegona, Lukwago has been receiving physiotherapy and was provided with an orthopedic mattress, but his condition continues to deteriorate.
The defence told court that Lukwago is suffering from a dislocated spinal disc that causes severe and persistent pain, requiring specialized medical intervention beyond what is available within prison health facilities.
“The condition has worsened and is causing excruciating pain. It requires MRI-guided diagnosis and treatment,” Ssegona submitted.
The lawyers also expressed concern about the prison environment, arguing that Lukwago faces an increased risk of contracting tuberculosis due to his proximity to a crowded TB ward.
Additionally, the defence claimed that recent laboratory tests indicated a decline in white blood cell counts, suggesting a weakened immune system that requires urgent medical attention.
As part of their application, the defence asked the court to either grant bail immediately or authorize Lukwago’s transfer to Mulago National Referral Hospital for specialized treatment.
State Opposes Bail Application
State Attorney Barbara Masinde opposed the application, urging the court to rely on the written submissions filed by both parties.
Masinde argued that the prosecution had submitted its response after reviewing all available information concerning Lukwago’s health and detention status.
“We pray that court adopts our written submissions in arriving at its decision,” she said.
In response, Ssegona reiterated that the defence had equally relied on its written submissions, emphasizing that the application was driven by concerns about Lukwago’s health and welfare while in custody.
Court to Deliver Ruling at 2pm
After confirming that both parties had complied with procedural requirements and filing deadlines, Chief Magistrate Basemera deferred the ruling to 2:00 p.m.
The highly anticipated decision comes amid growing public interest in a case that has attracted significant legal and political attention across Uganda.
Lukwago Faces Misprision of Treason Charge
Lukwago was last week arraigned before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court and charged with misprision of treason, an offence that alleges he failed to report information relating to an alleged treason plot said to have occurred between 2021 and 2024 in Uganda and Kenya.
The former Kampala Lord Mayor denied the charge.
Prosecutors informed the court that investigations are still ongoing and requested additional time before the matter proceeds further.
The case is expected to return to court later today for the bail ruling and further directions.
