Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has made a strong statement on the ongoing legal battles involving opposition figures Dr Kizza Besigye and former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago.
In a post shared on his X account, Muhoozi said Besigye and Lukwago would never be granted bail, adding that the two would have to face the consequences of what he described as their crimes.
“Besigye and Lukwago will never get bail. They will pay for their crimes!” Muhoozi wrote.
The statement comes at a time when the two opposition figures remain at the centre of closely watched court proceedings. Their supporters have continued to demand their release, while the state has maintained the criminal cases against them.
Besigye has been facing treason-related proceedings, while Lukwago has also been involved in a legal battle connected to treason charges. Their lawyers have previously sought their release on bail, but the applications have faced legal setbacks.
Muhoozi’s latest remarks are likely to attract strong reactions from both supporters and critics of the two opposition figures. His statement also adds to the political debate surrounding their continued detention and the wider question of bail in politically sensitive cases.
The General, who is one of the country’s most prominent political voices on X, did not give further details in the post about why he believes the two men will never be granted bail.
The cases against Besigye and Lukwago remain before the courts, where the allegations against them are yet to be finally determined. Under the law, being charged with an offence does not by itself amount to a conviction.
For now, Muhoozi’s statement has put fresh attention on the fate of the two opposition figures and their continuing fight through the courts for freedom.
