On Whose Instructions Are They Lodging The Case? Isaac Ssemakadde Moves To Block DPP Case!

By Spy Uganda

The President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), Isaac Ssemakadde, has filed an application seeking the dismissal of criminal charges leveled against him in the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court. The charges, brought by lawyers Joshua Byamazima and Tony Tumukunde, allege that Ssemakadde insulted the modesty of Jane Frances Abodo, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), during a recent public address.

On November 18, 2024, Ssemakadde reportedly made remarks during a symposium organized by the People’s Freedom Front (PFF) that were deemed obscene and offensive toward the DPP. His statements were recorded, and the lawyers presented a flash drive containing video evidence as part of their complaint. They claim that his comments violated Section 115(3) of Uganda’s Penal Code Act, which prohibits insults targeting the modesty of women.

In his application for dismissal, Ssemakadde through his lawyers at GEM Advocates argues that the charges lack merit, citing procedural and substantive grounds:

1. Lack of Direct Victim Involvement: Ssemakadde points out that the DPP herself has not initiated or supported the charges, which he argues undermines their credibility.
2. Abuse of Judicial Process: He describes the charges as frivolous, vexatious, and a misuse of court resources, intended to harass and discredit him rather than address genuine legal grievances.
3. Freedom of Expression: The ULS president insists that his comments were an exercise of his constitutional right to free speech and opinion, particularly in the context of a legal debate.
4. Pre-existing Bias: Ssemakadde accuses the complainants of acting out of animosity and pursuing a personal vendetta under the guise of legal action.

“The intending prosecutors, Byamazima Joshua and Tonny Tumukunde, stand in a pre-existing position of animosity with the applicant which they have deliberately concealed from this honourable court and the investigative and prosecutorial authorities that would have expectedly checked this bias and abuse of process,” reads Ssemakadde’s affidavit.

The Buganda Road Court is expected to hear the matter on December 4, with Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi presiding.

This case highlights the ongoing tension between Ssemakadde’s leadership style and traditional legal institutions. Known for his “legal rebel” persona and radical reformist agenda, Ssemakadde has faced criticism for controversial decisions, including the expulsion of the Attorney General and Solicitor General from the ULS Council and recalling ULS representatives from statutory bodies.

PDF Below Contains More Documents Submitted Before Court On This Matter!