By Stephen Muwambi
Former Kampala Lord Mayor and People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) leader Erias Lukwago will have to wait several more days to know whether he will regain his freedom after the High Court reserved its ruling on his second bail application until July 30, 2026.
Justice David Matovu heard the bail application in a session conducted behind closed doors, a development that immediately sparked criticism from opposition leaders and supporters, who questioned why proceedings involving such a high-profile political figure were not open to the public.
Lukwago, who remains on remand at Luzira Prison, is seeking temporary release pending the determination of his criminal case. His legal team argues that his deteriorating health, particularly complications related to his spine, requires urgent specialized treatment abroad.
Hearing Conducted in Camera
The hearing took place at the High Court before Justice David Matovu, who listened to submissions from both the defence and the prosecution before reserving his decision.Rather than delivering an immediate ruling, the judge announced that his decision would be communicated online on July 30, 2026, extending Lukwago’s stay in custody.
The decision to conduct the proceedings behind closed doors drew immediate attention, with critics describing the move as unusual given the significant public interest surrounding the case.Supporters who had gathered at court hoping to witness the proceedings were left waiting outside as lawyers made their submissions in private.
Defence Pushes Medical Grounds
Speaking after the hearing, Lukwago’s lead lawyer Medard Segona expressed cautious optimism, saying the defence had placed sufficient material before the court to justify granting bail.Segona maintained that the application was founded on constitutional principles, emphasizing that bail is a right that should not be denied arbitrarily.
“We have placed before court compelling grounds supporting Mr. Lukwago’s application. We are hopeful that justice will prevail when the ruling is delivered on July 30,” Segona said.The senior advocate also reiterated concerns about his client’s health.
According to the defence, Lukwago has persistent spinal complications that require specialized medical attention unavailable locally.Segona argued that doctors had recommended treatment in India, making his continued detention a matter of serious concern.
“His medical condition requires specialized treatment. We believe the court has carefully considered these submissions,” he added.
Health Concerns Take Centre Stage
Lukwago’s supporters say his incarceration has aggravated longstanding spinal complications that have troubled him for years.Family members and political allies insist that he needs urgent medical intervention at a specialized hospital in India, arguing that delays could worsen his condition.
His legal team relied heavily on medical evidence during the bail hearing, contending that continued imprisonment could have irreversible consequences for his health.The prosecution, however, opposed the application, prompting the court to reserve its ruling after considering arguments from both sides.
Rubongoya Questions Closed Proceedings
The National Unity Platform (NUP) Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya criticized the decision to conduct the hearing behind closed doors.Rubongoya said justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done, arguing that public confidence in the judiciary depends on transparency.
“Proceedings involving political leaders should be conducted openly unless there are exceptional circumstances. Justice should never appear secretive,” Rubongoya said.He further called for Lukwago’s release, citing both humanitarian and constitutional considerations.
“We continue to demand his freedom and hope the court will uphold the constitutional right to bail. His health should also be a major consideration.”
Opposition Raises Transparency Concerns
Several opposition politicians echoed similar concerns, questioning why members of the public and the media were excluded from the hearing.Some argued that conducting proceedings in camera risks undermining public confidence in judicial processes, particularly in politically sensitive cases.
Others maintained that while courts have discretion to restrict access under certain circumstances, such decisions should be adequately explained to avoid speculation.The Judiciary has not publicly elaborated on the reasons for holding the proceedings behind closed doors.
Political Significance
Lukwago remains one of Uganda’s most recognizable opposition figures. Having served as Kampala Lord Mayor for over a decade, he has consistently been among the government’s fiercest critics and has played a prominent role in opposition politics.
His recent association with the People’s Front for Freedom has further elevated his political profile ahead of the country’s evolving political landscape.
Supporters say his detention has become symbolic of wider concerns about political freedoms, while government supporters insist judicial processes should be allowed to proceed independently without political pressure.
Waiting for July 30
For now, Lukwago remains at Luzira Prison as supporters, family members and political allies await Justice Matovu’s ruling.
Should the court grant bail, the veteran politician could leave prison while continuing to face trial under conditions set by the court. If the application is denied, he will remain in custody pending further legal proceedings.
The online ruling scheduled for July 30, 2026, is expected to attract significant public and political attention, with both supporters and critics closely watching what could become another important moment in Uganda’s increasingly scrutinized judicial and political landscape.
Author Profile
- Mr. Stephen Kasozi Muwambi is a seasoned crime investigative writer, majoring in judicial-based stories. His two decades’ experience as a senior investigative journalist has made him one of the best to reckon on in Uganda. He can also be reached via [email protected]
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Lukwago deserves his freedom of movement, all that is circus, free all political prisoners 🙏🙏