"This is no longer just about legal technicalities but about a human life. Counsel Lukwago has dedicated his entire professional life to defending the rule of law and constitutionalism. To see the same system he has served now turn against him in his hour of greatest need is painful," Lulume added.
The decision prompted the Uganda Medical Association (UMA) to condemn the action, calling it an unlawful suspension. The association demanded the immediate withdrawal of the decision and called for an end to what it termed as political theatrics in health facilities.
The kidnappers held her captive for nearly three weeks, demanding up to $1 million before accepting about $200,000 (approximately UGX 700 million). During her captivity, they cut off two of her fingers and sent them alongside a video of her pleading for help to pressure her family into paying the ransom.
According to the prosecution, the group comprised 54 adults and 13 children, all of whom were unable to produce valid identification or immigration documents. State Prosecutor Abraham Akandehako told the court that their undocumented stay in Uganda contravened the country's immigration laws and posed potential security concerns.