Bobi Wine Blasts ‘State Lawlessness’ After Lukwago Abduction
A dramatic political crisis is unfolding in Uganda. Specifically, Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine has strongly condemned Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces and son of President Yoweri Museveni, following the violent arrest and alleged abduction of prominent human rights lawyer Erias Lukwago. Furthermore, the high-profile raid occurred on Monday morning, June 15, 2026, at Lukwago’s residence in Wakaliga.
How the Raid Unfolded
The operation was swift and forceful. Specifically, security operatives reportedly from the elite Special Forces Command scaled the perimeter wall of Lukwago’s home and took him from his bedroom.
Furthermore, witnesses reported he was bundled into a Toyota HiAce vehicle, commonly referred to locally as a “drone.”
Why Lukwago Was Targeted
The timing of the raid is significant. Specifically, Lukwago serves as lead defence counsel for veteran opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye. Furthermore, the raid took place just as Lukwago was preparing to serve court summons to Gen. Muhoozi.
Additionally, this summons connected to a lawsuit filed by Besigye over death threats Muhoozi allegedly made against him on social media.
Muhoozi’s Public Response
The military chief did not deny involvement. Specifically, Muhoozi posted on X, stating he had “captured a fool and taken him to the basement.” Furthermore, he shared photographs showing a blindfolded man resembling Lukwago.
Additionally, he directly challenged Lukwago’s authority, asking how he dared to summon him, stating that only “Mzee” his father, President Museveni, could summon him.
Bobi Wine’s Condemnation
Speaking from exile, Bobi Wine did not hold back. Specifically, he described the incident as an act of lawlessness and severe impunity. Furthermore, he called on Ugandans to reject and resist what he described as brazen impunity.
Additionally, he noted that this incident fits a broader pattern of targeting opposition figures and their legal representatives.
A Nation Reacts
The fallout has been swift and widespread. Specifically, both the Forum for Democratic Change and the Uganda Law Society have demanded Lukwago’s unconditional release.
Furthermore, they warned that targeting an advocate on duty represents a direct attack on the judiciary and the rule of law. However, neither police nor army spokespeople have issued formal charges at this time.
