Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has sparked fresh controversy after publicly admitting that opposition politician and lawyer Erias Lukwago was being held in detention, before later announcing that he would be released.
In a post on social media, Muhoozi stated that his wife, Charlotte, had convinced him to free Lukwago. “My beloved wife Charlotte has convinced me to release the criminal Lukwago. I will release him because of my love for her,” he wrote.
The statement quickly attracted widespread attention and triggered debate among Ugandans, with many questioning the circumstances under which Lukwago was detained in the first place.
Lukwago’s disappearance had already raised concerns among opposition leaders, lawyers, and human rights activists after reports emerged that security operatives had taken him from his home in Wakaliga.
His detention became a major political issue, especially because he is one of the lawyers representing opposition veteran Dr. Kizza Besigye in ongoing legal battles.
The Uganda Law Society and several opposition figures condemned the arrest, arguing that Lukwago was simply carrying out his professional duties as a lawyer.
Critics say the incident has once again raised concerns about the treatment of political opponents and the growing number of reported abductions and detentions involving opposition figures.
Others questioned why the release of a detainee appeared to depend on a personal decision rather than established legal procedures.
As reactions continue to pour in, the incident has intensified the national conversation about the rule of law, human rights, and the relationship between security agencies and political actors in Uganda.
While Muhoozi has indicated that Lukwago will be released, many Ugandans are now waiting to see what happens next and whether further explanations will be provided regarding the detention.
