Attorney General of Uganda Dr. Sam Mayanja has called on lawyers to uphold strict professional standards, stressing that the legal profession demands intelligence, dignity, and active participation in all forums.
Speaking during an interview on JCS Conversations with lawyer Elison Karuhanga, Mayanja underscored that the identity of a lawyer must be reflected not only in court but also in how they conduct themselves in public and professional engagements.
“A shabby lawyer is not one of us. A poor lawyer is not one of us. Every lawyer is intelligent. Every lawyer is smart. We must maintain those standards,” Mayanja said, emphasizing that the profession is built on discipline and excellence.
He noted that courtroom etiquette is central to legal practice, even in moments of disagreement or defeat.
According to him, respect for judicial processes should never be compromised, regardless of the outcome of a case.
“When you address the court, even if you have lost, you say, with due respect, I differ. That is part of the profession. The ethos of professionalism must always be encouraged,” he stated.
Mayanja further argued that legal practitioners must consistently project confidence and visibility in professional spaces, urging lawyers not to remain passive in meetings or public forums.
“Whenever you go, every meeting you attend make sure you are recognized. Stand up and say something. Don’t just walk out. Say something,” he said.
He added that active engagement helps build a lawyer’s identity and influence within professional and policy circles.
“Let the people in that room ask themselves: who is that person who has been speaking? That is a lawyer,” he remarked.
The Attorney General’s remarks come at a time when discussions on legal professionalism, mentorship, and ethics within Uganda’s legal fraternity continue to gain prominence.