In an unprecedented and controversial move, the Uganda Law Society (ULS) Council has expelled its President, Isaac Ssemakadde Kimeze, and Vice President, Anthony Asiimwe, citing gross misconduct.
“In order to restore public trust and confidence in Uganda Law Society and the Legal profession in Uganda we resolve as follows: Expel the President of the Uganda Law Society, Mr. Ssemakadde Isaac Kimeze from the Council of the Uganda Law Society to safeguard the reputation of the Uganda Law Society and save it from further denigration,” the decision announced by ULS Secretary, Phillip Munaabi on Saturday night reads in part.
The ULS Council’s decision follows public outrage over Ssemakadde’s derogatory comments against Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Justice Jane Frances Abodo, including his widely condemned reference to her as a “Karamojong vagina.”
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The Council described these remarks as “vulgar and condescending,” noting they have damaged the society’s reputation and strained relationships with donors which could jeopardize free legal aid services for over 40,000 vulnerable individuals.
The decision, however, is already facing backlash, with Ssemakadde’s supporters vowing stiff legal resistance and raising questions about the legality of the Council’s actions.
Munaabi did not cite any specific law granting the Council powers to remove a sitting president.
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Critics argue that the ULS Constitution and governing law only provide limited grounds for removing Council members, including:
- Resignation;
- Suspension or disqualification from practicing as an advocate;
- Certification of unsound mind;
- Appointment to a conflicting position;
- Conviction and sentencing to imprisonment exceeding six months;
- Removal by a special resolution passed by ULS members in a general meeting.
None of these grounds appear to apply to Ssemakadde or Asiimwe, raising questions about the legitimacy of the Council’s actions.
The Council has justified its decision to expel Ssemakadde and Asiimwe as necessary to restore public trust.
In addition, Vice President Asiimwe faced allegations of financial misconduct, including unauthorized control of ULS funds and spreading false claims of a “witch-hunt” against staff.
Risk of Legal Resistance
Ssemakadde’s supporters have vowed to challenge his removal, arguing that the Council acted outside its legal mandate.
The absence of a general meeting or member resolution, as required by law, could strengthen their case.
Legal analysts suggest the decision may lead to a prolonged legal battle, further dividing the ULS and eroding its public image.
Council’s Immediate Actions
Despite these concerns, the ULS Council ordered that Ssemakadde and Asiimwe were barred from ULS premises, emails, and property, with violations subject to criminal charges.
A caretaker committee led by Secretary Phillip Munaabi will oversee ULS operations.
The Council insists its actions were necessary to protect the society’s reputation and ensure continuity in its services.
The ULS leadership crisis has reignited debates about gender and tribal biases in the legal fraternity, as the scandal began with attacks against Justice Abodo, Uganda’s first female DPP and a member of the marginalized Karamojong ethnic group.
Observers warn that a protracted legal battle could further damage the ULS’ credibility, particularly with donors and partners critical to its legal aid programs.
The coming weeks will be pivotal as Ssemakadde’s legal team prepares a response.