Kampala, Uganda – In a dramatic turn of events, the Uganda Law Society (ULS) yestersay November 23, 2024, expelled its President, Isaac Ssemakadde, alongside Vice President Anthony Asiimwe, citing gross misconduct and actions detrimental to the organisation’s reputation.
The ULS Council, led by Secretary Philip Munaabi, announced the decision during an emergency meeting, following public uproar over Ssemakadde’s derogatory remarks and alleged financial improprieties.
Ssemakadde, once hailed as a reformist, came under fire for his inflammatory rhetoric, including vulgar comments directed at Uganda’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Justice Jane Frances Abodo.
His remarks, notably referring to Abodo as a “Karamojong vagina,” were condemned as misogynistic and tribalistic, sparking widespread backlash.
The ULS Council labelled the comments as “vulgar and condescending,” stating that they had irreparably tarnished the society’s credibility and strained relationships with donors and stakeholders.
“These actions have undermined the Uganda Law Society and the legal profession,” the council’s resolution read.
“To safeguard the ULS’s reputation, we expel Mr. Isaac Kimeze Ssemakadde and Vice President Asiimwe Anthony.”
In addition to the controversial rhetoric, the Council accused Ssemakadde and Asiimwe of enabling unauthorized control over ULS finances, further undermining the organisation’s integrity.
Vice President Asiimwe was also accused of perpetuating false claims of a staff “witch-hunt” to justify their actions.
The ULS Council has established an internal caretaker committee, led by Secretary Munaabi, to oversee operations and restore public trust.
The expelled leaders have been barred from accessing ULS premises and resources, with violations subject to criminal charges.
“This decision was not taken lightly. It is a necessary step to rebuild the ULS’s integrity and ensure its continued service to Uganda’s legal fraternity and vulnerable communities,” Munaabi said.
Ssemakadde’s supporters argue that the Council acted outside its mandate, pointing to the ULS Constitution, which outlines specific grounds for removing Council members, such as resignation, disqualification from practice, or a member resolution during a general meeting—none of which were applied.
Legal analysts warn of a protracted battle that could deepen divisions within the ULS. Ssemakadde’s legal team is preparing a robust defence, challenging the legitimacy of the Council’s actions.
The scandal has reignited discussions on gender and ethnic biases in Uganda’s legal community, particularly given Justice Abodo’s status as the first female DPP and a member of the marginalized Karamojong ethnic group.
Observers caution that the crisis may jeopardize ULS’s donor-supported programs, including free legal aid for over 40,000 vulnerable Ugandans.
As the ULS navigates this turbulent period, its ability to uphold professionalism and resolve internal conflicts will be critical in restoring its standing as a pillar of justice in Uganda.
The coming weeks will reveal whether this decision marks a turning point or a deeper unravelling for society.
