Uganda Law Society Responds to Ssemakadde’s Sentence

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has firmly responded to the recent High Court order for the arrest of their president, Isaac Ssemakadde. In an interview with Mildred Pedun, ULS Deputy President Anthony Asimwe expressed unwavering support for Ssemakadde and made it clear that the society would not allow his detention under any circumstances.

Asimwe emphasized, “We shall not allow the president of Uganda Law Society to be detained. We see this ruling as unfortunate and unprecedented, and we do not believe it will be implemented.”

The ongoing feud between the ULS and the judiciary dates back to February 7, during the opening of the New Law Year, where tensions between the judiciary and the new Bar, led by Ssemakadde, began to rise. Asimwe pointed out that a clear warning had been issued by the Chief Justice, describing the situation as an attempt to silence the Bar’s outspoken advocacy for accountability and justice.

When asked about the nature of the criticism directed at the judiciary by Ssemakadde, Asimwe made it clear that criticism, especially in the context of accountability, should be accepted by judicial officers. He noted, “Criticism is criticism. If a judicial officer or any person in that position cannot take it and responds by such drastic measures, it is very unfortunate and wrong.”

He further criticized the one-sided nature of the ruling, stressing that Ssemakadde was not given a fair hearing, and the decision was based solely on allegations without any opportunity for him to defend himself.

Looking ahead, Asimwe reassured the public that the ULS was not surprised by the developments and had anticipated such actions. He spoke about the society’s ongoing efforts to advocate for the independence of the judiciary and to eliminate corruption and incompetence within its ranks.

“Our fight is far from over. The radical Bar will continue demanding accountability and working toward the removal of corrupt judicial officers. We have the full support of our membership, and we will take all legal steps necessary to challenge this ruling,” Asimwe concluded.