The Uganda Law Society (ULS) is preparing to celebrate its 70th anniversary in December this year amid growing concerns about what lawyers describe as increasing violations of their rights and attacks on the legal profession.
The anniversary celebrations will be held under the theme, “Vows Renewed: Defence of the Rule of Law.”
Speaking during a visit to Uganda, the President of the Law Society of Kenya, Charles Kanjama, praised the ULS for its contribution to the justice sector in Uganda and across East Africa.
“Ugandan lawyers have been pivotal in promoting human rights, the rule of law and advocacy across East Africa. As lawyers in the region, we must stand firm and work in solidarity and unity. It is our responsibility to intervene in any member state and provide the necessary support. We should also be free to operate in any East African country without restrictions,” Kanjama said.
Kanjama also criticised what he described as continued harassment of legal professionals in Uganda. He cited the recent arrest of Kampala Lord Mayor and lawyer Erias Lukwago, as well as the deportation of Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua, who had travelled to Uganda to represent him.
According to Kanjama, Karua’s deportation was unjustified because she was not given any valid reason by security officials for being denied entry into the country.
“Karua’s deportation was illegal because she never received any justifiable reason from security authorities as to why she should not enter Uganda,” he said.
He added that the action was unfair and violated the principles and objectives of the East African Community (EAC) and its protocols, which promote cooperation and the free movement of people within member states.
Meanwhile, the Uganda Law Society has pledged to continue speaking out against injustice and defending the rights of lawyers and ordinary citizens.
In a message from ULS president Isaac Ssemakadde, who is currently living outside Uganda, the society reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rule of law and protecting citizens from human rights abuses.
The society called for the release of all citizens who have allegedly been unlawfully imprisoned, abducted or tortured.
ULS leaders said the legal profession has a duty to challenge injustice and ensure that government institutions operate within the law.
They maintained that a strong and independent legal system is essential for protecting citizens’ rights and strengthening democracy in Uganda.
