The Vice President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), Anthony Asiimwe, has called on newly enrolled Advocates to embrace the Radical New Bar's 4D mandate of Decolonisation, Demilitarization, Democratization, and Digital Transformation, describing the doctrines as essential guiding principles for the future of the legal profession.
Asiimwe made the remarks while representing ULS President Isaac Ssemakadde, SC, and the entire Governing Council at the enrollment exercise of 115 new Advocates of the High Court and subordinate courts held at the Court of Appeal Tower Headquarters, The Square, Kampala, on Friday.
The ceremony was attended by the Chief Registrar, the Secretary to the Law Council, judicial officers, proud parents, and other distinguished guests.
Representing Ssemakadde, Asiimwe joined the Chief Registrar and the Secretary to the Law Council in welcoming the newly enrolled Advocates to the Bar.
In his address, he conveyed greetings from the Radical New Bar leadership and encouraged the new entrants to actively participate in the affairs of the Uganda Law Society and contribute to the transformation of the legal profession.
Asiimwe said the Radical New Bar's 4D agenda should serve as the foundation upon which the young lawyers build their professional identities and careers.
“We are here to support, guide, and stand with you. However, it is up to each one of you to actively participate in the work of your professional home and make it the foundation of your growth and service,” he said.
Reflecting on the Radical New Bar's fourth catchword, Digital Transformation, Asiimwe pledged that Ssemakadde would one day join future enrollment ceremonies virtually to personally welcome young advocates into the profession.
Asiimwe reminded the new Advocates that membership in the legal profession comes with significant responsibilities and high expectations from society.
“You are entering a distinguished fraternity of legal practitioners, men and women entrusted with serving this country with honour, professionalism, and integrity. That respect carries great expectations. Society expects lawyers to be professional, respectable, disciplined, and exemplary in character,” he said.
Asiimwe further challenged the newly enrolled lawyers to look beyond personal success and appreciate the broader public service obligations that accompany their role as officers of the court.
According to him, the legal profession should be regarded not merely as a source of livelihood but as a calling dedicated to advancing justice and serving society.
“Today, you have crossed a significant milestone. But the journey ahead is where your story truly unfolds. Let this profession be not only your career but your calling. Walk with honour. Serve with humility. Uphold justice without compromise. Never forget why you entered this field in the first place: to make a difference,” he said.
Asiimwe emphasized that advocates have a duty not only to their clients but also to the public and the rule of law.
“Your duty as officers of the court extends beyond your clients; it is a commitment to serve the public and uphold the rule of law with courage and independence,” he said.