Opposition Jointly Condemns Lukwago’s Arrest

Opposition leaders have condemned the arrest of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, accusing security agencies of undermining democratic institutions and calling for respect for human rights and the rule of law. The leaders made the remarks during a meeting attended by representatives from different political parties, including Michael Lulume Bayigga, Alice Alaso, Patrick Amuriat Oboi, Lewis Rubongoya, Angella Lubongoya, and Shadow Minister for Security Kaps Fungaroo.

The meeting was convened in response to Lukwago’s arrest on Monday by the military and subsequent arraignment in court on Wednesday on charges of misprision of treason. He was remanded to Luzira prisons until June 22, 2026. Lulume Bayigga, the Deputy Chairperson of the Democratic Party-DP, said the meeting was aimed at ensuring Ugandans remain engaged in matters of governance and the affairs of the country.

Addressing Lukwago’s arrest, Lulume questioned the circumstances surrounding the operation, asking what offence the former mayor had committed and why the arrest was allegedly conducted by the Special Forces Command (SFC). As Shadow Minister for Security, Lulume raised concerns about the state of security institutions, arguing that some agencies are no longer serving their intended purpose. He also accused state institutions, including courts of law, of operating under pressure and fear, which he said affects their ability to deliver independent justice. 

Lulume further claimed that some members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) are concerned about the growing influence of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), which he alleged is using military influence to dominate the political space. He called on opposition groups and other democratic forces to challenge what he described as abuse of power. 

Alice Alaso, the Secretary General for the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), said the current situation in the country would persist if leaders and institutions remain silent. She accused governance institutions, including the judiciary and security agencies, of failing to protect citizens’ rights and instead attempting to justify actions that violate democratic principles.

Alaso called for discipline, accountability, and respect for human rights, urging regional leaders and public officials to speak out against actions that threaten democracy and the rule of law. Patrick Amuriat Oboi, the FDC president, called for restraint, sanity, and respect for democratic values, urging political actors to work together in defending citizens’ interests. Lewis Rubongoya, the Secretary General for the National Unity Platform-NUP, warned that no Ugandan is safe if unlawful arrests and abductions continue.

He cited alleged cases involving opposition supporters, including the reported detention of a supporter identified as Namanya, commonly known as Tabz. Rubongoya called upon religious leaders, cultural leaders, and other influential members of society to speak out in defence of justice, human rights, and constitutional governance.