Former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has reportedly pleaded with court to allow him access to Mulago National Referral Hospital, saying his health condition has continued deteriorating while in detention and that he fears for his life.
During a court session, Lukwago told authorities that he was struggling with his health and needed urgent medical attention from specialists at Mulago Hospital. He expressed concern that his condition could worsen if he does not receive proper treatment in time.
The veteran opposition politician, who is also a lawyer, reportedly told court that he was experiencing difficulties breathing and needed immediate medical assessment to determine the seriousness of his condition.
“Please at least take me to Mulago to save my life. I can’t breathe well and I can die any time,” Lukwago pleaded, according to reports from the court proceedings.
His request comes after a dramatic period following his arrest, which attracted widespread attention from opposition supporters, legal professionals and human rights activists.
Lukwago was arrested in June 2026 in circumstances that sparked controversy after he was reportedly picked up by security operatives from his home in Wakaliga, Kampala. Reports indicated that he had been preparing to serve court documents on Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The documents were linked to a legal case involving opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye, who had sued Gen. Muhoozi over statements he considered threatening and damaging to his rights.
Following his arrest, Lukwago was later charged with misprision of treason, a charge related to allegations that he failed to report information about alleged treason activities. He denied the accusations and maintained his innocence.
The arrest created a major political debate, with Lukwago’s allies accusing authorities of targeting him because of his role as Besigye’s lawyer and opposition figure.
His supporters argued that his detention raised questions about the safety of lawyers representing politically sensitive cases, while authorities maintained that legal processes were being followed.
The former Lord Mayor has remained a key figure in Uganda’s opposition politics for many years, known for challenging government decisions and defending political rights through both activism and legal work.
Before his arrest, Lukwago had taken an active role in legal proceedings involving Besigye, including efforts to hold senior security officials accountable through court processes.
His detention also came at a time when opposition leaders had raised concerns about the treatment of political actors facing criminal charges.
During court appearances, Lukwago’s health has become another major issue surrounding his continued detention. His plea to be taken to Mulago has increased calls from his supporters for authorities to prioritize his medical needs.
Medical treatment for detained individuals has often become a subject of public debate in Uganda, especially in cases involving high-profile political figures.
Lukwago’s legal team and supporters have continued insisting that he should receive proper medical attention and that his rights as a detainee must be protected.
The authorities have not publicly indicated whether his request to be transferred to Mulago Hospital will be granted, but the matter is expected to remain part of ongoing court discussions.
The case involving Lukwago continues to attract national attention because it combines legal battles, opposition politics and questions surrounding the relationship between security institutions and political actors.
As proceedings continue, many observers will be watching how the court handles Lukwago’s health concerns alongside the charges against him.
For his supporters, the immediate priority remains his health and access to medical care, while the broader legal battle over the charges continues.
Lukwago’s plea from court has added another chapter to a politically charged case that has already placed Uganda’s justice system, security agencies and opposition movements under intense public scrutiny.
