The Uganda Muslim Lawyers Association (UMLAS) has called on security agencies and other state authorities to uphold the rule of law and respect constitutional safeguards following the reported arrest and detention of senior lawyer and political leader Erias Lukwago.
UMLAS President Rashid Ssemambo stated that the Association had taken note of reports surrounding the arrest and detention of Mr Lukwago, a Senior Counsel, President of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), and one of Uganda’s prominent legal practitioners.
He urged the authorities to ensure that any actions taken against Mr Lukwago are conducted strictly within the provisions of the Constitution and the 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 reads.
Mr Ssemambo emphasised that advocates play a critical role in the administration of justice and should be able to perform their professional duties without fear, intimidation or undue interference.
‘We respectfully urge the responsible authorities to provide timely information regarding the status, location and legal basis of Counsel Lukwago’s detention and to ensure that all constitutional safeguards relating to liberty, due process, access to legal representation and the right to a fair hearing are fully observed,’ he said.
Mr Ssemambo also raised concerns over reports that Mr Lukwago was arrested during a pre-dawn operation in which security personnel allegedly entered his residence after scaling or breaching the perimeter of his home.
‘If accurately reported, such actions raise important questions regarding compliance with constitutional safeguards governing arrest, search, privacy and the inviolability of the home,’ he noted.
UMLAS further expressed concern over public comments attributed to the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, on social media platform X, saying such statements could be perceived as intimidating and potentially undermine public confidence in the administration of justice.
‘Public commentary by persons holding high public office carries significant influence and should therefore be exercised with restraint, particularly where legal proceedings are pending or contemplated,’ he said.
According to Mr Ssemambo, the independence of the judiciary and legal profession depends not only on actual impartiality but also on public confidence that disputes will be resolved through established legal processes and courts of law.
The association stressed that allegations of criminal conduct should be handled through lawful procedures and determined by competent courts.
‘As Muslims and legal practitioners, we are guided by the enduring principles of justice, fairness and accountability,’ UMLAS said, citing Islamic teachings that promote justice and condemn oppression.
The association called upon the Uganda Law Society, the Judiciary, Parliament, civil society organisations, religious leaders and citizens to remain vigilant in defending constitutionalism, due process and equal protection under the law.
‘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 added.
UMLAS said it remains committed to promoting peaceful engagement, respect for the law, and the protection of rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution of Uganda.
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