The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has warned the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, against what it describes as continued attacks on lawyers and the rule of law.
Speaking to Bbeg Media, the ULS vice president, Anthony Asiimwe, said Gen Muhoozi should remember that Uganda is governed by a Constitution that must be respected by all citizens, regardless of their position.
His remarks followed the arrest and detention of senior lawyer and former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago last week. The circumstances surrounding Lukwago’s arrest have attracted public attention and criticism from members of the legal fraternity.
“As lawyers, we are living in unfortunate times. Our brother Gen Muhoozi should know that he is not above the law and must respect the laws of Uganda. We cannot sit back and watch what we consider unlawful actions,” Asiimwe said.
He said ULS was deeply concerned that Gen Muhoozi appeared to be involving himself in matters that belong to the judiciary rather than concentrating on his constitutional role of defending the country’s territorial integrity.
According to Asiimwe, any attack on one lawyer should be viewed as an attack on the entire legal profession.
He warned Gen Muhoozi to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could undermine constitutional governance and the rule of law.
“As lawyers, we shall continue putting pressure on the government and all relevant authorities to ensure that Elias Lukwago regains his freedom,” he said.
Asiimwe also called on institutions including the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Attorney General’s Chambers and Parliament to take action regarding what he described as troubling conduct by the CDF.
