The Uganda Law Society (ULS) is now without a president following a series of legal and disciplinary actions against Isaac Ssemakadde, culminating in his conviction and sentencing to two years in prison.
According to the ULS Act, a president ceases to hold office if convicted of a criminal offense and sentenced to more than six months in prison.
With Ssemakadde receiving a two-year sentence for contempt of court, the presidency is legally vacant.
In February 2025, High Court Judge Musa Ssekaana found Ssemakadde guilty of contempt of court over derogatory remarks made on social media against the judiciary.
The court ruled that his statements were scandalous and undermined the authority of the judiciary, sentencing him to two years in jail.
However, reports indicate that Ssemakadde fled the country before the ruling and has not returned to serve his sentence, further complicating the legal landscape surrounding his position.
Under the Uganda Law Society Act, a president automatically ceases to hold office if sentenced to more than six months in prison.
Given Ssemakadde’s two-year sentence, his role as ULS President is now untenable, rendering the seat vacant by operation of law and implication.
Compounding his legal troubles, a Buganda Road Court issued a warrant for Ssemakadde’s arrest on February 24, 2025, after he failed to appear in court to answer charges related to offensive communication.
The case stems from allegations that he made insulting remarks about the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Justice Jane Frances Abodo, referring to her in derogatory and misogynistic terms. His continued absence from court has led to further speculation about his willingness to return to Uganda and face justice.
Ssemakadde’s presidency was already marred by controversy even before his conviction. In November 2024, the ULS Council expelled him from the presidency, citing gross misconduct and actions detrimental to the society’s reputation.
However, his removal was contested on procedural grounds, as the ULS Constitution provides limited avenues for the removal of an elected president outside of resignation, disqualification, or conviction.
With his recent conviction now meeting the legal threshold for removal, there is no ambiguity—the presidency is officially vacant.
With the ULS presidency now legally unoccupied, the society must take swift action to fill the leadership vacuum.
The ULS Constitution provides for the appointment of an interim leader or the organization of fresh elections to elect a new president. The legal fraternity in Uganda is keenly watching how the ULS Council will navigate this unprecedented situation.
As the legal battles surrounding Ssemakadde continue, the Uganda Law Society must focus on restoring stability, credibility, and adherence to the rule of law.
