KAMPALA — The Uganda Muslim Lawyers Association (UMLA) has expressed concern over the reported arrest and detention of Senior Counsel Erias Lukwago, calling for his immediate access to legal counsel, disclosure of his whereabouts, and strict adherence to constitutional safeguards governing arrest and detention.
In a detailed press statement issued on June 15, 2026, UMLA said it had taken note of reports concerning what it described as the “pre-dawn arrest and detention” of Lukwago, a prominent advocate and political leader, and urged authorities to ensure that all actions taken are consistent with the Constitution and laws of Uganda.
“As an association committed to the promotion of justice, constitutionalism, and the rule of law, UMLAS calls 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 read.
The association stressed that lawyers occupy a special position in society as officers of the court, warning that intimidation, harassment or interference with their work risks undermining the entire justice system.
It further expressed concern over reports that Lukwago may have been arrested during a pre-dawn operation in which security personnel allegedly entered his residence under contentious circumstances, raising questions about respect for constitutional protections governing privacy, arrest procedures and the sanctity of the home.
“The sanctity of the home is a principle deeply rooted both in constitutional governance and Islamic jurisprudence,” the lawyers noted, citing both constitutional provisions and Qur’anic injunctions on privacy and due process.
Concerns over public images
The statement comes amid widespread circulation on social media of images, allegedly showing Lukwago in detention conditions.
In one image, Lukwago is seen in what appears to be a washroom, blindfolded with a kafiyeh. In another, he is seen lying on the floor of a tiled bathroom, still blindfolded, with his hands not restrained—images that have triggered public concern and debate over his treatment and wellbeing.
UMLA said such public commentary and imagery, particularly from senior security officials, risked undermining public confidence in the administration of justice and could be perceived as intimidating in the context of an ongoing legal matter.
“Public statements attributed to high public office holders may reasonably be perceived as intimidating and capable of undermining public confidence in the administration of justice,” the association warned.
Lukwago's partner in defence of detained politician Kizza Besigye, Martha Karua, earlier on Monday expressed grave concerns and challenged President Museveni to follow the rule of law.
"We are here to stand up for the rule of law, to stand up for equality under the law, and to stand up for the independence of the courts as provided for by the Constitution and the laws of Uganda and international human rights standards," Karua, a senior Kenyan counsel, said.
UMLA urged authorities to immediately clarify Lukwago’s whereabouts, legal status, and the basis of any detention, stressing that constitutional guarantees on liberty, access to counsel, and fair hearing must be respected.
The association also warned that any arrest or detention must meet the constitutional thresholds of necessity, proportionality, and due process.
“While the law permits lawful entry and arrest in appropriate circumstances, such powers must always be exercised in a manner consistent with due process, necessity, proportionality, and respect for human dignity,” the statement said.
UMLA anchored its statement in both constitutional and Islamic principles, citing Qur’anic injunctions on justice and the sanctity of the home, including Surah An-Nisa 4:135 and Surah An-Nahl 16:90, alongside prophetic teachings emphasising justice and the prevention of harm.
The association said justice must remain the guiding principle of all public institutions, and called on state actors to avoid actions that could erode trust in the judiciary or legal profession.
UMLA called on the Uganda Law Society, Judiciary, Parliament, civil society organisations, and religious leaders to speak out in defence of constitutionalism, due process, and the independence of the legal profession.
It further urged authorities to ensure that lawyers are able to discharge their duties without fear or intimidation, warning that any attack on a legal practitioner ultimately undermines access to justice for all citizens.
“The protection of lawyers in the lawful discharge of their professional duties is not a privilege accorded to a few; it is an essential safeguard for every citizen who may one day seek justice before our courts,” the statement said.
UMLA reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful engagement, constitutionalism, and the rule of law, concluding with its motto: “For God and My Country.”
Authorities had not issued an official response to the allegations at the time of publication.