The Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kampala has granted Uganda Law Society (ULS) President, Mr. Isaac Ssemakadde, a final opportunity to appear and respond to charges of indecent assault. The charges were privately initiated by fellow lawyers, alleging that Mr. Ssemakadde insulted the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Ms. Jane Frances Abodo.
Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi, in his ruling on February 10, 2025, acknowledged the defense’s claim that Mr. Ssemakadde was unwell with a severe cough during the previous court date on January 31, 2025. In the interest of justice, the magistrate extended the criminal summons, mandating Mr. Ssemakadde to appear in court on February 24, 2025. The magistrate emphasized that failure to attend on this date would compel the court to issue a warrant for his arrest.
The allegations against Mr. Ssemakadde stem from remarks he purportedly made about DPP Abodo, which have been interpreted as insulting and indecent. The case has attracted significant attention within the legal community and the public, given Mr. Ssemakadde’s prominent position as ULS President.
This development follows a recent call by Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, who demanded that Mr. Ssemakadde apologize to Justice Musa Ssekaana for alleged insults made on social media. The Chief Justice warned that failure to issue an apology would result in disciplinary action.
As the legal proceedings continue, the court’s decision on February 24 will be pivotal in determining the course of action regarding the charges against Mr. Ssemakadde.
