A troubling rift has emerged in the high-profile case of former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago. While medical experts at Mulago National Referral Hospital have submitted clear written testimony that his deteriorating health — hypertension, spinal complications, respiratory issues, and more — cannot be adequately managed in prison or even at Mulago, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) appears determined to push back.

One senior health policy voice captured the outrage: Reading that affidavit by ODPP begs the question if DPP acquired expertise in Medical Care?” The experts have spoken. The question now is whether the justice system is listening — or deliberately undermining professional medical opinion.

The Facts Cannot Be Ignored

Lukwagos legal team has consistently argued that continued detention poses serious risk to his life. Court-ordered transfers to Mulago reportedly confirmed the gravity of his condition. Yet the prosecution’s position raises a fundamental concern: Are government lawyers overriding qualified doctors to keep a political opponent locked up?This is bigger than one individual. When prosecutors — trained in law, not medicine — second-guess specialist physicians in a matter of life and health, it sets a dangerous precedent. The Judiciary, including the Bench, faces scrutiny for seemingly allowing this tension to persist while a Senior Counsel’s well-being hangs in the balance.Bold Truth: No political charge — whether misprision of treason or any other — justifies gambling with a citizen’s life. If Mulago specialists say prison conditions and even limited hospital capacity cannot help Lukwago, basic humanity and the Constitution demand his release on bail or appropriate medical grounds. Anything less smells of political persecution dressed up as justice.Balanced PerspectiveThe state has every right to prosecute serious allegations vigorously. National security and the rule of law matter. However, due process includes respecting medical evidence and constitutional protections for the accused. Prolonged pre-trial detention amid documented health deterioration undermines public faith in the fairness of Uganda’s courts.Dr. Erias Lukwago is a prominent opposition figure with a long history of challenging power. That background should not strip him of basic rights to health and due process. The DPP must clarify its medical basis for contesting expert testimony. The Judiciary must act decisively to protect its integrity.Two weeks — or more — of uncertainty after dramatic developments in this case is unacceptable. Uganda deserves better than a justice system that appears selective in its mercy and aggressive in its pursuit of political opponents.The ball is now in the court of the Judiciary and the prosecution. Produce clear medical justification or grant relief. Justice must not only be done — it must be seen to be done, especially when a man’s life is at stake.