The Uganda Prisons Service has confirmed that Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) president Erias Lukwago is being held in the sick bay at Murchison Bay Prison, where officials say he is in stable condition and receiving medical monitoring.
Prisons spokesperson Frank Baine said Lukwago was admitted to the facility’s referral unit, described as a specialised medical wing within Murchison Bay Prison, following a court directive requiring his assessment and management.
“We have admitted him and he is currently in the sick bay. He is in a stable condition,” Baine said in an interview with Nile Post.
Baine said Lukwago underwent an entry medical examination upon arrival at the prison, a standard procedure conducted for all new inmates.
“Every person who goes to our place has what we call an entry medical examination. So he could not be an exception,” he said.
The prisons spokesperson declined to disclose details of the examinations or any specific medical findings, citing patient confidentiality.
Court Directive and Prison Position
The Uganda Prisons Service said Lukwago’s admission followed a court order directing the institution to assess his condition, manage his medical needs, and later submit a report.
“The person we received came from court, and court had specific instructions. We are following them to the letter,” Baine said.
He defended the prison’s ability to handle inmates requiring medical attention, noting that Murchison Bay Prison serves as a referral facility for prisoners from across the country.
Baine dismissed suggestions that Lukwago’s condition required care beyond the prison’s capacity.
“If you think we are going to fail, that is in your mind and it will die there. We are managing,” he said.
Lukwago’s family and legal team had earlier raised concerns about whether the prison health system could provide the specialised care they believe he requires.
Lukwago, who appeared frail, was remanded by Makindye Chief Magistrates Court despite pleas from his lawyers that he should instead be placed in a hospital for medical attention.
However, prison authorities maintained that all inmates receive medical care under the same system regardless of their status or public profile.
Medical Confidentiality
On questions regarding the specific medical tests conducted on Lukwago, Baine said such information remains confidential and can only be accessed through official medical channels.
“When you go to the doctor for an examination, do you put your information in the newspaper?” he asked.
Court Appearance
Lukwago is expected to appear before court on Monday, with prison officials saying he will be presented in a medically stable condition.
“We shall take him on Monday in a condition that he will be in,” Baine said.
The case has renewed debate over the capacity of Uganda’s prison health system to manage inmates with complex medical needs. While prison authorities maintain that their facilities are equipped to provide care, critics argue that some cases require specialised treatment outside correctional facilities.
For now, prison officials say Lukwago remains under medical observation at Murchison Bay Prison pending further court direction.