Ugandan opposition lawyer charged as political tensions escalate

Lukwago denied the accusation of failing to report treason and remains in custody. His detention follows a pattern of heightened friction between the state and those representing Kizza Besigye, a key opposition leader currently facing his own treason trial. Beyond the criminal case, Lukwago is involved in a civil suit against Kainerugaba, alleging the military leader repeatedly threatened Besigye’s life on social media.

Following the court session, defense counsel reported that Lukwago collapsed in detention after being subjected to forced physical drills. Kainerugaba, known for inflammatory online rhetoric, publicly claimed on X that he was proud of the pain inflicted upon the lawyer. The military chief has previously issued threats against both Besigye and exiled opposition leader Bobi Wine, further intensifying the atmosphere of political intimidation surrounding President Yoweri Museveni’s four-decade administration.