Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has announced that opposition politician and lawyer Erias Lukwago will be released following an appeal from his wife, Charlotte. The announcement was made through a post on X, where the army chief said he had agreed to free Lukwago out of love and respect for his wife’s request.
In the post, Gen. Muhoozi stated that Charlotte had convinced him to release Lukwago, whom he referred to as a criminal. The statement quickly attracted widespread attention on social media, with supporters and critics debating the circumstances surrounding Lukwago’s detention.
The development comes after Lukwago was reportedly arrested by armed security personnel from his home in Kampala. Earlier posts by the CDF had indicated that the former Kampala Lord Mayor was being held in what was described as a basement, triggering concern among opposition supporters and human rights activists.
Lukwago’s wife, Zawedde Lubwama Lukwago, told journalists that security operatives forcefully entered their home before taking him away. She criticized the manner of the arrest and questioned why authorities had not followed established legal procedures.
Opposition leaders and members of the legal fraternity condemned the detention, arguing that it undermined the rule of law and political freedoms. Several activists called for Lukwago’s immediate release and demanded clarification regarding his whereabouts and legal status.
The announcement of his impending release is likely to ease tensions that had been building since news of his arrest emerged. However, questions remain about the reasons behind the detention and whether any formal charges will be brought against the outspoken opposition figure.
