Ssemakadde denies allegations of pressuring Eron Kiiza to apologize
Following his imprisonment, activists, including lawyer Agather Atuhaire, called on the ULS to protest what they termed an unfair trial. However, the ULS distanced itself from organized protests, focusing instead on internal measures.
The President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), Isaac Ssemakadde, has categorically denied allegations that he urged jailed lawyer Eron Kiiza to apologize to regain his freedom.
The allegations, which surfaced on social media, claimed that Ssemakadde privately met Kiiza at Kitalya Prison and suggested he apologize to Lt. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Eron Kiiza, a member of the legal team representing opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and co-accused Hajj Obeid Lutale, was sentenced to nine months in Kitalya Prison by the General Court Martial for “contempt of court.”
Following his imprisonment, activists, including lawyer Agather Atuhaire, called on the ULS to protest what they termed an unfair trial. However, the ULS distanced itself from organized protests, focusing instead on internal measures.
On January 13, social media posts alleged that Ssemakadde had visited Kiiza and advised him to apologize to Muhoozi to secure his release. Responding to the claims, Ssemakadde issued a press release on Tuesday morning, dismissing the allegations as “baseless and untrue.” He urged the public to rely on verified information rather than rumors.
“We strongly denounce the false allegations and misinformation circulating about Eron Kiiza’s imprisonment. The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has been working tirelessly to address the situation, and it is essential to rely on credible sources,” Ssemakadde stated.
He revealed that the ULS had launched three fact-finding delegations to investigate the circumstances of Kiiza’s imprisonment. These teams are tasked with assessing the situation, proposing remedies, and ensuring the rights of lawyers appearing before military courts are upheld.
Ssemakadde condemned individuals exploiting the situation for personal or political gain, describing their actions as harmful to Kiiza, his family, the ULS, and the broader legal community.
“Their reckless and irresponsible actions are causing harm to Kiiza and undermining efforts to address the situation constructively,” he said, urging patience as the ULS works on a comprehensive statement.
However, social media users, including NyineTabz, doubled down on the allegations, insisting Ssemakadde had indeed asked Kiiza to apologize. Nyine claimed others present at Kitalya could corroborate the events, adding that Ssemakadde should issue a straightforward denial.
In response, Ssemakadde reaffirmed the ULS’s commitment to supporting Kiiza and his family while advocating for human rights and the rule of law. He criticized attempts to politicize the matter and emphasized the importance of lawful and respectful engagement.
Ssemakadde also expressed gratitude to Kenyan legal icon Hon. Martha Karua, SC, for her support and understanding of the ULS’s approach.
As the situation unfolds, the ULS President has called for patience and a focus on justice through proper legal channels, reiterating that misinformation only hinders efforts to resolve the matter.
