The Foreign Office is rattled. A lawyer representing a client in a high-profile Ugandan treason case has been charged with subversion in Kampala. The charge is a direct affront to the UK's cherished rule of law, a principle London has long sought to enshrine across the Commonwealth.
Sources tell me the lawyer, whose name is being withheld for legal reasons, was arrested this morning. The charge relates to his representation of a member of the political opposition. The Ugandan government alleges the lawyer conspired to overthrow the state. Critics say it is a blatant attempt to silence dissent.
Word from the Foreign Office is one of cautious anger. Officials are preparing a statement that will reaffirm the UK's commitment to legal due process. But behind closed doors, there is frustration. The UK has invested significant diplomatic capital in Uganda, a key Commonwealth partner. This charge threatens to unravel that relationship.
The timing is terrible. Next month, Commonwealth law ministers meet in London. The UK wanted to showcase its leadership on judicial independence. Now, this.
One former British ambassador to Uganda told me: "We cannot be seen to bend our principles for realpolitik. But nor can we afford to alienate Kampala. It is a delicate dance."
The opposition in Uganda is watching closely. They hope the UK will take a harder line. But the UK's leverage is limited. Trade and security ties are deep.
I am hearing that No. 10 is being briefed hourly. The Prime Minister is under pressure from his own backbenches to condemn Uganda publicly. But the Foreign Office prefers quiet diplomacy.
This will be a test. A test of the UK's post-Brexit global Britain rhetoric. Can London really stand up for the rule of law when it clashes with strategic interests? We will find out in the coming days.
The lawyer is due in court tomorrow. The UK embassy is monitoring the case. But will they intervene? That is the question on everyone's lips in the Lobby.
One thing is clear: the game of power is being played in Kampala. And the UK is on the back foot.
