It’s Null & Void-Abnitio Sir! Uganda Law Society Challenges Presidential Directive on Bail Ban

By Andrew Irumba

Kampala, January 1, 2025: In a bold move to uphold justice and human rights, the Uganda Law Society (ULS) has openly opposed President Museveni’s recent directive to eliminate police bond and bail for individuals accused of embezzling public funds, specifically the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga funds. Labeling the accused as “village thieves,” the directive has sparked national debate, with ULS describing it as a violation of constitutional rights.

The announcement follows President Museveni’s end-of-year message last night, where he declared his decision to remove police bond and revealed discussions with Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo to deny court bail for similar cases. While the president presented the move as a tough stance on corruption, critics have raised concerns about its timing and intent. Many see it as a strategic maneuver in the lead-up to the 2026 election campaign, potentially targeting youth protesters and opposition groups expected to challenge his leadership.

In their press release titled “Let’s fight corruption, not human rights,” the ULS underscored that the directive contravene Articles 23, 28(3)(a), and 99 of the Ugandan Constitution.

ULS President Isaac K. Ssemakadde pointed out the colonial roots of police jail congestion and called for an end to the systemic injustices perpetuated by arbitrary detentions. “It is time to break the police-to-prison pipeline that disproportionately targets the poor, civil society activists, and the opposition,” he declared.

The society pledged to hold errant police officers and malicious prosecutors accountable under Sections 10, 11, 12, 14, and 15 of the Human Rights (Enforcement) Act. Emphasizing the need for thorough investigations before any arrests, they urged the Director of Public Prosecutions to prioritize fair and efficient legal processes over bureaucratic overreach.

“We cannot let colonial-era hallmarks of repression define our justice system. This New Law Year is an opportunity to build a system that serves the people with justice, equality, and human rights,” Ssemakadde stated.

As the nation grapples with this directive, political analysts warn of its broader implications. Many argue it could exacerbate tensions between the government and the youth, who have been at the forefront of calls for change. With a firm commitment to ending corruption without undermining individual rights, the ULS has set the stage for what could be a transformative year in Uganda’s legal and political landscape.