Former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago missed Tuesday’s court session after prison authorities reported that he was too unwell to leave Mulago National Referral Hospital, where he is receiving specialised treatment.

Lukwago was scheduled to appear before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court for the hearing of his case on charges of misprision of treason.

However, Uganda Prisons Service informed the court that he could not be produced as he was undergoing medical investigations.

Lukwago’s lead lawyer, Medard Lubega Sseggona, told journalists after a meeting in the magistrate’s chambers that the Prisons Service had written to the court explaining the situation. Sseggona said Lukwago’s condition had deteriorated and that doctors deemed him unfit to attend court.

“He is also weak, and probably both Prisons and the Hospital did not deem it fit to disorganise that frail body by bringing him to court,” he added.

Defence team members who visited Lukwago at the hospital earlier in the day confirmed his weakened state.

The court adjourned the matter to Tuesday next week at 9:00 a.m. to allow him to continue with medical care.

Lukwago was transferred from Luzira Prison to Mulago Hospital on June 25, 2026, following a court order for comprehensive medical assessment and treatment.

The court also directed that his wife and one chosen lawyer be granted reasonable access and receive copies of his medical reports.

This hospitalisation followed the rejection of his bail application.

Chief Magistrate Sarah Basemera had ruled that, despite his health concerns, prison authorities could manage his condition during ongoing investigations.

Lukwago suffers from hypertension, spinal complications, respiratory problems, and other issues linked to a previous neck surgery in India.

His legal team has indicated plans to seek specialised treatment abroad if he is released.

He was arrested on June 15, 2026, and charged with misprision of treason.

Prosecutors allege he failed to report knowledge of an alleged plot to overthrow the government involving his clients, Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajj Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya. Lukwago denies the charge.