The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has taken an unprecedented step by formally abandoning its long-standing tradition of political neutrality and openly endorsing opposition candidates ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In an Executive Order issued on December 21, 2025, ULS President Isaac K. Ssemakadde declared that the legal profession could no longer remain neutral in the face of what he described as the systematic erosion of the rule of law in Uganda
The order, issued under “extraordinary circumstances,” accuses the Museveni/NRM administration of excessive militarisation of civilian life, entrenched corruption, and the capture of state institutions, including the judiciary.
According to the document, security agencies have been “weaponised” to suppress dissent through abductions, torture, extrajudicial killings, and the trial of civilians in military courts—actions ULS says are incompatible with constitutional governance.
Citing what it calls a “total breakdown of constitutionalism,” the Society argues that continued political neutrality would amount to complicity.
The executive order claims the judiciary has been weakened through coerced appointments, manipulated rulings, and clandestine postings, leaving it unable to act as an independent arbiter of justice.
It also references intimidation and arrests of lawyers, journalists, and activists, framing the moment as an existential threat to both the legal profession and democratic governance.
Against this backdrop, ULS has unequivocally endorsed National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, as its preferred presidential candidate for 2026.
The Society has also backed Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago for continued leadership of the capital, Dr. Obuku Ekwaro Anthony for Oyam South parliamentary seat, and all candidates contesting under NUP and the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF). In addition, the endorsement extends to lawyers and law students seeking elective office at any level.
The executive order states that these candidates represent “the foremost credible force” for restoring constitutional order, economic justice, youth empowerment, and institutional independence. ULS further calls for a “total political reset,” including the demilitarisation of civilian affairs, liberation of captured institutions, and an end to what it describes as sham trials and enforced disappearances.
Beyond endorsements, the Society has issued a mobilisation call to its members, the wider legal community, civil society organisations, and “patriotic Ugandans” to actively support the endorsed candidates. It pledged to deploy its resources, within the bounds of the law, to educate the public on what it characterises as a historic electoral contest. The order also urges voters to remain within the vicinity of polling stations during voting and counting to safeguard electoral outcomes.
The move is likely to spark intense debate within legal and political circles, with supporters hailing it as a principled stand for constitutionalism and critics questioning whether a professional body has overstepped its mandate. Nonetheless, the Society insists its decision is both lawful and necessary, arguing that the 2026 elections represent a decisive moment to reclaim the rule of law and restore professional dignity in Uganda.
