Speaking at the PFF headquarters in Katonga on Monday, Bayiga criticized the circumstances surrounding Lukwago’s arrest and questioned why legal processes involving Gen Muhoozi have become a source of controversy.
The former Buikwe South Member of Parliament argued that no individual, regardless of rank or position, should consider themselves above the law. He maintained that court orders must be respected by all citizens if public confidence in Uganda’s justice system is to be preserved.
Bayiga's remarks came after reports that Lukwago was arrested by security operatives from his home in Wakaliga in Kampala. The opposition leader and lawyer is part of legal efforts linked to cases involving detained opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye.
Addressing journalists, Bayiga suggested that the arrest may be connected to attempts by lawyers to serve court documents on Gen Muhoozi following a judicial directive requiring the military chief to appear before court in relation to a human rights enforcement application.
According to Bayiga, arresting or intimidating individuals involved in legal proceedings does not stop the judicial process from moving forward.
"You can run, but you cannot hide from the law," he said, insisting that legal obligations remain in force regardless of actions taken against lawyers or litigants.
The PFF deputy president argued that serving court documents is a routine legal procedure and questioned why such a process would lead to the arrest of a lawyer carrying out his professional duties.
He further stated that leaders seeking higher office should be prepared to submit themselves to legal scrutiny whenever required.
“If someone wants to lead the country in the future, they should not fear appearing before court when summoned,” Bayiga said, adding that accountability is a fundamental principle of democratic governance.
The outspoken politician also expressed concern about what he described as increasing pressure on opposition figures and legal practitioners involved in politically sensitive cases.
Bayiga warned that incidents involving lawyers and opposition leaders could undermine confidence in public institutions if not properly addressed. He emphasized that the independence of the judiciary and legal profession should be protected at all times.
Drawing comparisons with previous periods in Uganda’s political history, Bayiga argued that citizens have a right to question government actions and demand accountability from leaders.
He noted that democracy depends on open discussion, transparency, and respect for constitutional rights, regardless of political affiliation.
The PFF leader also called upon various institutions, including the Uganda Law Society, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and government agencies responsible for justice and constitutional affairs, to speak out on the matter.
According to Bayiga, the response of these institutions will play a significant role in determining whether constitutional principles and the rule of law are upheld.
He further appealed to President Yoweri Museveni to intervene and ensure that Lukwago is released, arguing that concerns about the opposition leader’s whereabouts and welfare continue to grow.
“We call upon President Museveni to ensure that our party president regains his freedom,” Bayiga told reporters.
Other PFF officials, including spokesperson Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda and party leaders at the press conference, echoed concerns about Lukwago’s detention and said they had not been informed of his whereabouts.
The arrest has continued to attract attention from political observers, lawyers, and human rights advocates, with many demanding clarification from authorities regarding Lukwago’s legal status and place of detention.