Erias Lukwago has made an emotional appeal for urgent medical intervention, saying his deteriorating health condition has left him fearing for his life and pleading for relief from what he described as unbearable suffering.
The former Kampala Lord Mayor told court that his current health struggles have become overwhelming and that he would rather receive care that reduces his pain than continue experiencing what he described as a painful battle with multiple illnesses.
Lukwago, who is currently being held at Luzira Prison, made the remarks while appearing before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court through a video link.
He told court that doctors at Mulago National Referral Hospital had identified several serious health conditions requiring urgent attention, including specialised treatment that he believes can only be accessed outside the country.
In a deeply emotional statement, Lukwago said he fears that without immediate medical assistance, his condition could worsen and put his life at greater risk.
He appealed for compassion, saying that if his health situation cannot be improved immediately, he should at least be allowed access to care that would ease his suffering and preserve his dignity.
Lukwago told court that he does not want to go through prolonged pain and uncertainty, describing his situation as a serious health crisis that requires urgent action.
He said his medical challenges have affected different parts of his body, including his spine, lungs, hearing system, digestive system, and blood pressure management.
According to Lukwago, specialists who examined him at Mulago Hospital recommended further medical review, including a return to India where he previously underwent spinal treatment.
He explained that his spinal complications require assessment by the doctors who carried out his earlier procedure because they understand the nature of the implants used during his surgery.
Lukwago said remaining in prison while dealing with his health problems has made his situation more difficult, arguing that he needs a medical environment where his conditions can be properly managed.
He also raised concerns about his breathing problems, saying his lung condition causes discomfort and makes it difficult for him in environments where oxygen circulation is limited.
The former mayor further revealed that his hearing condition requires specialised management and that he has faced challenges accessing some of the medical support recommended by doctors.
He told court that his digestive complications also require special attention, including proper diet and treatment, which he says have been difficult to maintain while incarcerated.
Lukwago’s lawyers have continued to raise concerns about his medical state, urging authorities to consider his health needs as his legal case progresses.
The opposition figure said his intention is not to avoid accountability but to seek the medical assistance necessary to protect his life.
He appealed for understanding from authorities, saying health matters should be treated with urgency regardless of a person’s legal situation.
Lukwago’s remarks have attracted public attention, with many people expressing concern about his condition and calling for his medical needs to be addressed.
The former Lord Mayor is facing charges of misprision of treason before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court, allegations he has denied.
Prosecution alleges that Lukwago failed to report information relating to an alleged treason plot involving his clients, Dr Kizza Besigye and Hajj Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya.
The case continues as Lukwago maintains that his immediate concern is receiving proper medical care and avoiding further deterioration of his health.
His emotional plea has renewed debate about the treatment of detainees with serious medical conditions and the need to balance justice with humanitarian considerations.
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