The Makindye Chief Magistrates Court in Kampala has denied bail to former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, citing concerns that he may interfere with ongoing investigations due to his societal influence. The court noted that Lukwago is facing a charge that carries a potential life imprisonment sentence, as ruled by Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera.

Erias Lukwago, an opposition politician and lawyer, will remain in custody after the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court denied his bail application. Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera stated that the prosecution provided compelling reasons for continued detention, highlighting the seriousness of the charges against him and the necessity for protection.

The arrest of Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has sparked a national debate on power and accountability in Uganda, highlighting concerns over public intimidation. Following Lukwago's detention, Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba addressed the situation on social media, reflecting the growing fear among Ugandans regarding potential arrests, according to The Observer.

The state has taken significant actions affecting the treason case against Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide, Haji Obeid Lutale, within a week. Erias Lukwago, the former Kampala Lord Mayor and Besigye's lead lawyer, is noted as a key figure in this context, raising concerns about the state's apprehensions regarding his influence and that of another prominent figure, Karua.

Detained opposition politician Col. (Rtd) Dr. Kizza Besigye has addressed High Court Judge Emmanuel Baguma, expressing concerns over violations of his constitutional right to a fair trial. In a letter dated July 1, 2026, Besigye insisted that his preferred legal representatives, deported Kenyan Senior Counsel Martha Karua and jailed lawyer Erias Lukwago, should remain as his primary lawyers despite their current circumstances.

A recent surge in opposition arrests, military detentions, and treason charges in Uganda indicates a worsening political crisis. Notably, Erias Lukwago, the former Lord Mayor of Kampala and legal representative for Dr. Kizza Besigye, has been implicated in these developments, which include allegations of abduction and torture of political opponents, according to The Independent.