Christian lawyers urge Ssemakade to tone down language

In this file photo, ULS president Isaac Ssemakadde appears on NTV Uganda in the past. PHOTO/NMG
What you need to know:
- The recent public disagreements between Ssemakade and other officials have raised eyebrows, with some commentators predicting a tumultuous period for the legal profession.
The Uganda Christian Lawyers' Fraternity (UCLF) has called upon Uganda Law Society President Isaac Ssemakadde to tone down his language when advocating for justice from government officials.
In a letter written dated November 21, 2024, UCLF President Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe expressed "profound dismay and outrage" at Ssemakadde's use of "vulgar language" against Director of Public Prosecutions Jane Frances Abodo and "disrespectful statements" against the Attorney General and other judicial officials.
Muhairwe emphasised that such behaviour is "unprofessional, unethical, and undermines the integrity as well as the respect that should characterise the legal profession."
She quoted Ephesians 4:29, stating that "our words as leaders should be used to build and unite the legal fraternity in Uganda rather than cause unnecessary discord and division."
"It's normal to disagree in leadership; however, as leaders, let us strive to embody the principles of respect and professionalism in all our dealings," Muhairwe said in a private interview. "We appeal to you to embrace tolerance, love, honor, and collegiality while engaging others to address the diverse legal concerns of our present times."
Muhairwe noted that it is the duty of Christian lawyers to promote sanity and end hostilities that may tarnish the legal profession. "As Christian lawyers, we are called to be peacemakers and to promote unity and harmony within the legal fraternity," she said.
The UCLF's call comes amid recent bickering within the Uganda Law Society hierarchy, which has sparked concerns about uncertainty. The recent public disagreements between Ssemakadde and other officials have raised eyebrows, with some commentators predicting a tumultuous period for the legal profession.
As one of the largest formations of lawyers under the Uganda Law Society, with over 1,500 members, the UCLF's stance carries significant weight. The fraternity has branches in all four regions of the country and has been vocal on various legal and social issues.
The UCLF's letter to Ssemakadde has been seen as a call to order, urging him to maintain a level of professionalism and respect in his public statements.