The Spy Uganda
Kampala, Uganda – February 27, 2025: The Uganda Law Society (ULS) is at war with the judiciary over what it calls a “blatant abuse of judicial power” following the issuance of a second arrest warrant against its President, Isaac Ssemakadde, in under two weeks. With mounting pressure and legal battles raging, Vice President Asimwe Anthony has stepped up to fight for his leader’s right to be heard, warning of dire consequences for judicial independence if this trend continues.
In a strongly worded statement, Asimwe condemned the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court for issuing yet another arrest warrant on February 24, 2025, despite Ssemakadde’s pending revision application before the High Court.
“We view these actions as a blatant abuse of judicial power and a continuation of the ongoing judicial harassment of our President,” Asimwe declared. “Despite the Uganda Road Court’s awareness of President Ssemakadde’s ongoing revision application in the High Court of Uganda, challenging an earlier ruling by Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi, the lower court chose to ignore these developments.”
Judiciary Under Fire: Lawyers Question Ssekaana’s Role
The case has sparked outrage among sections of the legal fraternity, with some lawyers questioning High Court Judge Musa Ssekaana’s role in the proceedings. The first arrest warrant, issued on February 14, 2025, originated from his courtroom, and critics argue that Ssekaana should have recused himself due to a conflict of interest.
One lawyer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, pointed out the violation of the principle that no judge should hear their own cause.
“Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done. How can Judge Ssekaana issue an arrest warrant in a case where he has been publicly criticized? There is a clear conflict of interest,” the lawyer argued.
Meanwhile, sources indicate that several senior advocates are working behind the scenes to challenge the legality of both arrest warrants, fearing that this case sets a dangerous precedent for judicial impartiality.
The Unfolding Legal Showdown
Asimwe Anthony, backed by a faction of ULS members, has vowed to fight until Ssemakadde’s revision application is heard. The Vice President is calling on the High Court and Court of Appeal to intervene before irreparable damage is done to the rule of law.
“The ULS is deeply concerned that the judiciary is being used as a tool for persecution rather than upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice,” Asimwe stated.
But while the legal battles continue, the clock is ticking. If Ssemakadde is convicted, it could mark the end of his tenure as ULS President.
What Happens If Ssemakadde Is Convicted Tonight?
According to Section 11(2) of the Uganda Law Society Act,
“A person shall cease to hold office as President if convicted of a criminal offense involving moral turpitude or professional misconduct.”
If Ssemakadde is found guilty, his presidency will automatically end. ULS will be required to convene an emergency council meeting to appoint an interim leader, with fresh elections expected within weeks.
This could pave the way for Asimwe Anthony to assume leadership in the interim, or even contest for the position permanently. However, with tensions running high, the possibility of a deeply divided ULS cannot be ruled out.
As evening approaches, all eyes are on the judiciary. Will Ssemakadde be convicted and unseated? Will the courts acknowledge the concerns raised by his legal team? Or will this battle spiral into a full-blown crisis for Uganda’s legal profession?
For now, Vice President Asimwe Anthony and his allies continue to push back. But as legal scholars say, the law is predictable—until it is tested by power.
