The President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), Bernard Oundo, has called for an immediate and comprehensive investigation in the cases of missing persons and illegal arrest.
Oundo made the appeal on February 8, during the launch of the new law year 2024 conducted by the Judiciary.
“As the Uganda Law Society, our mandate is to advocate for the rule of law. As we start the New Year, we appeal to you that these cases of missing persons and illegal arrests must be investigated comprehensively and those responsible be held accountable,” said Oundo.
He also urged all actors and all arms of government to respect judicial independence, adding that there can be no meaningful people-centred approach to justice if justice seekers have to defend their matters with influence.
“It’s important for us to reflect on our justice system and how it should operate. We will defend matters in the courts of law and not boycott judicial functions,” said Oundo.
Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka cautioned lawyers against unethical behaviour, saying the law society cannot sit to discuss matters pertaining to the decision of a judicial officer.
“Let us know how far we must go. If one is aggrieved by the decision of a judicial officer, we should go to the courts; we cannot summon the judicial officer. There is no need for a lawyer to call a press conference to discuss a court decision instead of lodging an appeal,” said AG Kiwanuka.
MP Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of Opposition in Parliament, recently appealed to European Union Ambassadors to push the government to account for Ugandans who went missing after the last general elections.
Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo, the Vice President, represented President Yoweri Museveni at the event.
