ULS in the spot of bother after members question "illegal" arbitration centre

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) the umbrella body that brings together advocates in Uganda is in the spot of bother after it was accused by some of its members of setting up an arbitration and mediation centre without their consent.

The matter was first brought to light by Nelson Walusimbi, an advocate who questioned the legality of centre for International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation in Kampala (ICAMEK).

Walusimbi accused former ULS President Francis Gimara and other prominent lawyers like Masembe Kanyerezi of going behind the back of ULS members to establish ICAMEK.

"We will complete the task of winding up the unlawful outfit ICAMEK and count on your support in this lawful effort. We will also hold to account those who abuse our trust or obstruct our commonwealth....," Walusimbi wrote.

The Nile Post has established that the Uganda Law Society (ULS) has called for crisis meeting to handle the matter.

According to USL President Simon Peter Kinobe, the members’ extra ordinary meeting has been set for May 22, 2019 and is aimed at reaching a consensus on the issue.

“It is unfortunate that instead of seeking clarification and without citing relevant provisions of the law, one of our members took to social media to smutch the good reputation of our society,” he said in reference to Walusimbi.

He said ULS executive, using ULS Act as provided incorporated ICAMEK as a company limited by guarantee for the sole purpose arbitration.

He said the beneficiaries would be clients and young lawyers that will participate in the arbitral process as both arbitrators and consultants.