Uganda Law Society President Isaac Ssemakadde has been sentenced to two years in prison for contempt of court. The ruling, delivered by Justice Musa Ssekaana, found Ssemakadde guilty of making derogatory and scandalous remarks against the judiciary through his social media platforms.
Ssemakadde’s troubles began when he launched a series of public attacks on Justice Ssekaana, accusing him of bias, corruption, and having “unholy alliances” with government officials. He also made explicit and demeaning statements, including allegations of sexual harassment.
The court ruled that such statements were defamatory, aimed at intimidating the judiciary, and interfering with judicial proceedings. Justice Ssekaana emphasized that while criticism of judicial decisions is allowed, personal attacks against judges amount to contempt of court.
Ssemakadde’s supporters argue that his sentencing raises important questions about the limits of free speech in Uganda’s legal system. However, the court maintained that the right to free speech must not be exercised in a way that undermines public order, morality, or the authority of the state.
