Erias Lukwago, the Lord Mayor of Kampala and legal representative for Uganda’s opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, successfully reclaimed the latter’s personal belongings in Nairobi following a tense confrontation with Kenyan security agents.
On November 16, 2024, Dr. Besigye and his associate Hajji Obeid Lutale were forcibly taken from a hotel in the Westlands area of Nairobi and later deported to Uganda, where they are now facing charges in a military court. However, their personal belongings, including essential documents and travel items, remained in their hotel room.
Lukwago, acting on behalf of Besigye with legal authorization, faced resistance from Kenyan authorities who sought to enter Besigye’s hotel room. Despite their efforts, which included obtaining a court order to seize the property, Lukwago, backed by a team of lawyers, insisted on adhering to proper legal procedures.
After a prolonged standoff, Lukwago managed to secure the property, which included critical documents and personal items belonging to Dr. Besigye. However, access to Lutale’s room was denied, though Lukwago confirmed he would pursue the matter further.
This legal victory comes amid growing concerns over the legality of the abduction and subsequent detention of Dr. Besigye and Lutale in Uganda.
The two were seized in Nairobi under disputed circumstances and have since been charged with offenses allegedly committed outside Uganda, including illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
Their next court appearance is set for December 2, 2024, as their legal team continues to challenge the jurisdiction of Uganda’s military court and the legality of their abduction.
The case has attracted international attention, raising questions about the conduct of cross-border operations and the treatment of political opposition figures.
