Elias Lukwago, the former Lord Mayor
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Due to the complex and sensitive nature of the case at hand, the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court has deferred its ruling on the bail application of former Kampala Lord Mayor and acting president of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), Erias Lukwago, pending further consideration of the issues raised before court.
The hearing was deferred after Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera indicated that the ruling was not yet ready, citing the high sensitivity of the case, the chaotic courtroom environment, and the large volume of legal, procedural and health-related matters that required careful assessment. Instead of delivering the decision in open court, the magistrate opted to issue the final verdict electronically within 24 hours.
Lukwago, who was charged last week with misprision of treason, remains on remand at Luzira Prison as the court finalizes its determination on whether he qualifies for temporary release on bail. Prosecutors allege that he failed to report an alleged treason plot involving opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, Hajj Obeid Lutale and others.
According to Lukwago’s lead lawyer, Medard Ssegona, the magistrate informed lawyers in chambers that the ruling required additional time because of the substantial legal arguments advanced by both the defence and the state.
“Her Worship advised that her ruling is not ready owing to the sensitivity of the case and the environment as you see it,” Ssegona told journalists after the proceedings. “She undertook to deliver the ruling by email within 24 hours.”
Among the primary reasons for the deferral was the complexity and sensitivity of the case itself. The charge of misprision of treason carries significant legal implications, and the court noted that extensive submissions from both sides required a systematic and thorough review before a decision could be reached.
The magistrate also cited the volume of issues raised during the bail hearing. Both the prosecution and the defence presented detailed arguments concerning Lukwago’s deteriorating health, his eligibility for bail, the suitability of his proposed sureties, and concerns about possible interference with witnesses if released.
In addition, the environment in and around the courtroom was reportedly tense and chaotic. The highly charged atmosphere made it difficult to safely and orderly convene court for the delivery of such a sensitive ruling, prompting the decision to communicate the verdict through digital channels.
While expressing disappointment at the delay, Ssegona said his greatest concern remained his client’s health condition, which he claimed continues to worsen while in custody. He urged the court to carefully consider the medical evidence submitted by the defence.
The court has since fixed June 30, 2026, for the formal mention of the main case. Lukwago has been remanded back to Luzira Prison pending the electronic release of the bail ruling through email and the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECMIS), a decision that will determine whether he remains in custody or regains his freedom as the case proceeds.
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