Muslim Lawyers Demand Respect for Rule of Law Following Lukwago’s Arrest
By Skika Reporter.
The Uganda Muslim Lawyers Association (UMLAS) has called on security agencies and 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.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, UMLAS President Rashid Ssemambo expressed concern over reports surrounding the detention of Mr Lukwago, a Senior Counsel, President of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), and one of Uganda’s most prominent legal practitioners.
Mr Ssemambo urged authorities to ensure that any actions taken against Mr Lukwago are conducted strictly within the framework 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 said.
The association emphasized the critical role advocates play in the administration of justice, noting that legal practitioners must be able to perform their professional duties without fear, intimidation, or undue interference.
UMLAS called on the responsible authorities to provide timely information regarding Mr Lukwago’s status, whereabouts, and the legal basis for his detention. The association also urged the observance of constitutional safeguards, including the right to liberty, due process, access to legal representation, and a fair hearing.
Concerns were also raised about reports that Mr Lukwago was arrested during a pre-dawn security operation in which officers 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,” Mr Ssemambo noted.
The lawyers’ body further expressed concern over public comments attributed to Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba on social media platform X, arguing that such statements could be perceived as intimidating and risk undermining 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,” Mr Ssemambo said.
According to UMLAS, the independence of the judiciary and the legal profession depends not only on actual impartiality but also on public confidence that disputes and allegations will be resolved through established legal processes and competent courts.
The association stressed that any allegations of criminal conduct should be handled through lawful procedures and determined by the courts rather than through public commentary.
Drawing from Islamic teachings, UMLAS reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability, emphasizing that faith-based values support the protection of human rights and the rejection of oppression.
The association also called upon the Uganda Law Society, the Judiciary, Parliament, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and the general public 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 reiterated its commitment to promoting peaceful engagement, respect for the law, and the protection of rights and freedoms guaranteed under Uganda’s Constitution as concerns continue to grow over the circumstances surrounding Mr Lukwago’s detention.
