“In oppressive systems, where decorum is weaponised to silence dissent and shield the powerful, vulgarity becomes a radical tool to confront injustice.” These fiery words from a Twitter user encapsulate why Isaac Ssemakadde is a phenomenon Uganda’s legal fraternity cannot ignore. Love him or hate him, Ssemakadde’s rise as President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS) is not just a story of resilience—it is a masterclass in disruption, shaking the very foundations of Uganda’s justice system.
Here are ten reasons why his rebellious approach, coupled with his signature unapologetic style, makes him the sour concoction Uganda needs right now.
1. Fighting the Good Fight for the Public
Ssemakadde’s track record of defending underdogs is indisputable. From standing up for Dr. Stella Nyanzi against oppressive charges to challenging the dismissal of Kyambogo University’s Professor Isaiah Omoro Ndiege, he has consistently taken on cases others deem too “risky.” For him, the law is not a tool for the privileged but a shield for the oppressed. His work with Legal Brains Trust, which he co-founded as a law student, demonstrates a lifelong commitment to justice for the downtrodden. This isn’t just passion—it’s purpose.
2. Fierce Advocate for the Independence of the Bar
One of Ssemakadde’s first bold moves as ULS President was expelling the Attorney General, Kiryowa Kiwanuka, and the Solicitor General from the ULS Council. He argued that their dual roles compromised the independence of the legal profession, citing the Prof. Ssempebwa ULS Report (2012). This is not an isolated stance—it is a cornerstone of his campaign to decolonize and democratize the bar. By drawing a firm line between the legal profession and the state, Ssemakadde aims to restore integrity and accountability to Uganda’s justice system.
3. Unyielding Passion—Even in Love
Passion fuels everything Ssemakadde touches, even his personal life. In a raw moment during an Observer interview, he confessed to still thinking about his ex, Joanne Uwimbabazi. He didn’t hide the vulnerability: “Joanne, please come back; counsel misses you.” This isn’t just about romance—it’s about authenticity. If he can be this honest about matters of the heart, imagine the transparency he brings to matters of justice.
4. Relentless Pursuit of Legal Reforms
Ssemakadde doesn’t just critique the system; he rewrites it. His advocacy led to the nullification of controversial sections of the 2016 Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. By tackling outdated laws head-on, he’s paving the way for a legal framework that prioritizes fairness and human rights over punitive excess.
5. Fearless Use of Language to Shake the Status Quo
Critics call his language vulgar; supporters call it revolutionary. Referring to DPP Jane Frances Abodo as a “Karamojong vagina” might have shocked many, but it was calculated—meant to expose the fragility of a system that values decorum over justice. As one X user aptly put it, “Vulgarity becomes a radical tool to confront injustice.” This raw approach forces the public to confront uncomfortable truths about systemic corruption and impunity.
6. Challenging Legal Cartels
In his critique of Uganda’s legal profession, Ssemakadde called it a “state-backed cartel” that prioritizes political power over public service. His presidency is a rebellion against this status quo. By opening ULS leadership to non-advocates during his campaign, he signaled a new era of inclusivity and innovation within the legal fraternity.
7. Revolutionizing Advocates’ Revenue Models
Charging UGX 15,000,000 ($4,085) for a digital access levy? Ssemakadde calls this what it is: flawed elitism. His fight against exorbitant fees through the Uganda Law Reform Commission highlights his focus on democratizing legal services. Affordable justice, after all, begins with accessible legal systems.
8. Radical Advocacy for Women’s Rights
While critics focus on his controversial language, few highlight his tangible impact on gender equity. By addressing systemic issues like the trial of civilians in military courts and unlawful detentions—issues that disproportionately affect women—Ssemakadde challenges Uganda’s patriarchal power structures.
9. An Icon of Youthful Leadership
At just 39, Ssemakadde represents the generational shift Uganda’s legal fraternity desperately needs. His tenure isn’t just about his manifesto; it’s a call to action for young lawyers to challenge archaic systems. “Be annoyed. It’s not the time to be pleasant,” said Dr. Kabumba in support of his radical approach.
10. A Master Organiser
Ssemakadde understands that mobilization without organization is futile. His focus on grassroots storytelling and mindset change—one narrative at a time—highlights his commitment to sustainable reform. He doesn’t just want to lead; he wants to leave a legacy.
Closing Thoughts
Ssemakadde’s leadership is polarizing, no doubt. But Uganda’s justice system doesn’t need polite reformers who tiptoe around entrenched power structures. It needs rebels, radicals, and rabble-rousers willing to make the uncomfortable decisions.
As we watch his tenure unfold, one thing is certain: Isaac Ssemakadde is not just a leader; he’s a movement. Whether you sip the sour concoction he’s serving or spit it out, the truth remains—it’s the medicine Uganda’s justice system sorely needs
Read more on Ssemakadde’s profile here:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaac_Ssemakadde
Interview with SatisfashionUg:
https://satisfashionug.com/isaac-ssemakadde-doesnt-have-all-the-answers-but-he-thinks-we-do/
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