KAMPALA, Uganda – The Uganda Muslim Lawyers Association has raised concerns over the reported arrest and detention of Senior Counsel Erias Lukwago, urging authorities to disclose his whereabouts, allow him access to legal representation and ensure that his constitutional rights are protected.
In a statement issued on June 15, the association said it was closely following reports that Lukwago was taken into custody during what it described as a pre-dawn operation. It called on authorities to handle the matter in full compliance with Uganda’s Constitution and the country’s legal procedures.
The lawyers’ body emphasized that every citizen is entitled to due process and that any arrest or detention should be carried out within the framework of the law.
The association also expressed concern over images circulating on social media that allegedly showed Lukwago blindfolded and appearing to be in distress. It said the reports raise questions about respect for human dignity, procedural fairness and the rule of law.
According to the statement, legal professionals play a critical role in the administration of justice and should be able to carry out their duties without intimidation or interference.
“As an association committed to the promotion of justice, constitutionalism and the rule of law, we call upon all relevant authorities to ensure that any actions taken against any citizen, including advocates, are conducted strictly in accordance with the Constitution and laws of Uganda,” the statement said.
The Uganda Muslim Lawyers Association urged the responsible authorities to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding Lukwago’s detention and to uphold the legal protections guaranteed to all individuals under Ugandan law.
By the time of the statement, no official explanation had been provided regarding the legal basis for Lukwago’s detention or his current whereabouts.
