Uganda Law Society President Isaac Ssemakadde has sparked debate after questioning what he describes as a pattern of arrests, detention, and political pressure against outspoken Ugandans, naming several high-profile figures and linking their troubles to their public criticism of the state.
In his remarks, Ssemakadde referenced lawyer Male Kiwanuka Mabirizi, opposition leader Kizza Besigye, musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, and online activist Ninye Tabz, suggesting that each had faced state action due to their political or civic positions.
Ssemakadde argued that the cases reflect a broader crisis of governance and accountability.
He questioned whether Uganda is still functioning as a democratic state, pointing to what he described as punitive responses to dissenting voices.
Male Kiwanuka Mabirizi, a lawyer known for frequent constitutional petitions and public interest litigation, was cited as having “run into trouble” after repeatedly challenging judicial processes and individual judges in court. Critics, however, have often accused him of confrontational legal tactics and controversial filings.
For Besigye, Ssemakadde linked his repeated arrests and legal battles to his long-standing opposition to President Yoweri Museveni’s government, noting that his political campaigns have consistently challenged election outcomes and state authority.
On Bobi Wine, Ssemakadde referenced his political mobilisation and election challenge against the ruling establishment, arguing that his activism has made him a target of pressure and, at times, forced him into periods of political uncertainty outside active governance structures.
He also mentioned Lukwago, suggesting tensions between him and state power due to his vocal criticism of government policy and alignment with opposition politics in Kampala.
Lukwago has frequently clashed with central government authorities over city administration.
Ninye Tabz was described as an online critic who exposes corruption and abuses of office, with Ssemakadde suggesting that such activism often attracts retaliation.