Govt Demands Ssemakadde Apologise Over Offensive Remarks
In a statement issued by Rose Lilly Akello, the minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, the government expressed outrage over what it called “abhorrent language” that undermines public decency and the dignity of women.
The Directorate for Ethics and Integrity has condemned remarks made by Isaac Ssemakadde, president of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), labeling them as "vulgar and offensive".
M<r Ssemakadde's controversial statements, directed at the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Jane Frances Abodo, were reportedly made during a function organised by the People's Front for Freedom (PFF).
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In a statement issued by Rose Lilly Akello, the minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, the government expressed outrage over what it called “abhorrent language” that undermines public decency and the dignity of women.
“I am appalled that a leader of such a high-ranking body would resort to obscene and derogatory language at a public function,” Akello said.
“This flagrant abuse of freedom of speech demeans not only the DPP but also the moral fabric of our society."
The minister demanded a public apology from Ssemakadde, stating that it was necessary to restore respect and uphold Uganda’s National Ethical Values, which emphasize integrity, respect for humanity, and moral uprightness.
Earlier, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) also issued a statement demanding an apology from Ssemakadde, whose troubles have been heaping since taking office vowing to lead using his abbrassive "bang the table" manner.
The DPP accused him of making vulgar and offensive remarks captured in a video circulating on social media, describing the comments as "grossly inflammatory, unprofessional, and deeply disrespectful."
“These remarks undermine the integrity of the criminal justice system and perpetuate misogyny,” the statement noted.
It further accused Ssemakadde of breaching professional and ethical standards and launching a personal attack on Lady Justice Abodo, who has served Uganda’s justice system with distinction for over 23 years.
The DPP warned that it reserves the right to pursue legal action and engage professional bodies to hold Ssemakadde accountable for his conduct.
On Tuesday, four members of Mr Ssemakadde's Law Society Council disowned him, saying his conduct was not tied to their office.
Mr Ssemakadde started his tenure last month by ordering that ex-officios of the Law Council, the Attorney General and Solicitor General, were colonial relics that had to be discarded.
The controversial decision saw him dragged to court.
