DPP opposes Lukwago bail, citing flight risk

What the report says

The Independent Uganda, citing URN, reported that the Director of Public Prosecutions has urged the High Court Criminal Division in Kampala to reject bail for Erias Lukwago, president of the People’s Front for Freedom. In an affidavit, Chief State Attorney Joseph Kyomuhendo argued that Lukwago’s release could affect the trial because of his public profile, the seriousness of the misprision of treason charge, and a risk of witness interference or non-appearance in court.

The prosecution disputed Lukwago’s health-based grounds for bail, saying Uganda Prisons Service can provide needed medical care, and rejected claims that he had been assaulted or subjected to harmful detention conditions. The State also challenged the adequacy of his proposed sureties, who include lawyer Chrysostom Katumba, his brother Abdul Sewankambo, MP Betty Nambooze Bakireke and former MP Moses Kasibante. It noted that misprision of treason can attract a life sentence, which prosecutors said increases flight risk.

Justice David Matovu did not hear oral arguments on Friday, instead directing written submissions before a ruling expected on July 30 through the Electronic Court Case Management Information System. Lukwago’s lawyer, Medard Lubega Sseggona, said the defence remains worried about his client’s health and had sought referral to Mulago National Referral Hospital, while the judge directed prison authorities to take appropriate medical steps after consultation.

According to the reported indictment, Lukwago is accused of failing to report alleged knowledge of a plot to overthrow Uganda’s government between 2021 and November 2024. He denies the charge and says he is entitled to bail, citing the presumption of innocence, fixed residence and long legal practice.