KAMPALA – Uganda Law Society President Isaac Ssemakadde has been sentenced to two years in prison for contempt of court. The ruling, delivered by Justice Musa Ssekaana of the High Court in Kampala, found Ssemakadde guilty of making derogatory remarks on social media that targeted the judge and the judiciary over an ongoing legal case.
“The protection of courts from attacks of this kind where cases are pending is vital,” Justice Ssekaana said in his ruling.
Justice Ssekaana emphasized that contempt of court involves any act or statement that undermines the judiciary’s dignity or authority.
“The right of free speech and the full expression of opinion are valued rights. Their preservation, however, depends on the observance of the acceptable limit that they must not be used to undermine public order or morality or the authority of the State,” Justice Ssekaana said.
“A person knowledgeable in legal matters and elected as the head of the Uganda Law Society should set an example, not incite discord and disrespect toward the judiciary,” Justice Ssekaana added.
Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo also weighed in on the matter, warning that individuals attacking judicial officers would bear the consequences of their actions.
“Someone abuses you, makes you feel stupid, and then comes to your house expecting business as usual,” Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo said.
“People think they have greatness in attacking instead of criticising. The leadership of the Uganda Law Society is trying to drag judicial officers through the mud. If the law doesn’t favour you, accept it. Our duty is to uphold constitutionalism and justice,” Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo added.
In addition to the two-year prison sentence, Ssemakadde was also ordered to bear the costs of the application. An arrest warrant has been issued for Ssemakadde, who was not present in court during the ruling.
