Lukwago Objects to Charge Sheet Amendment, Calls for Immediate Bail of 25 Detainees

Kampala, Uganda — Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who is part of Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi’s defence team, has strongly objected to the prosecution’s move to amend the charge sheet to include 24 additional accused persons, describing the decision as unlawful and prejudicial.Addressing court on Tuesday, Lukwago argued that the amendment amounts to an ambush, noting that it was introduced after the Uganda Law Society (ULS) Rapid Response Team had already met with relatives of the detainees and gathered all the necessary information to support their bail applications.He told court that the sudden inclusion of more accused persons undermines the principles of fair hearing and due process, insisting that the defence was not given adequate notice to prepare for the expanded charges.

Lukwago further submitted that the amendment places the accused at a disadvantage, particularly given the advanced stage of bail preparations, and urged court to protect the rights of the detainees.He concluded by praying that all 25 detainees be granted bail and allowed to return home today, emphasizing that continued detention under the circumstances would be unjust.

The matter remains before court for determination.