The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has said they are contemplating taking legal action against the Uganda Law Society president, Isaac Ssemakadde, over what was termed as continued “personal” attacks.
Ssemakadde has on several occasions been quoted and recorded on media attacking DPP Jane Frances Abodo on several platforms.
In the latest incident, Ssemakadde who was speaking during a symposium of the People’s Front for Freedom-PFF on Monday, made remarks targeting the DPP in what many have described as demeaning.
In a statement on Wednesday morning, the office of the DPP said they have observed with time, “highly derogatory and offensive remarks against the person of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).”
The DPP’s office particularly mentioned the Monday incident at Katonga Road in which “Mr. Semakadde used vulgar language, inappropriate and demeaning terms on the person of the DPP, which is not only unprofessional but also deeply disrespectful.”
“ These remarks are grossly inflammatory, despicable, and unacceptable, and have no place in public discourse, particularly from a leader of a professional body. Mr. Semakadde’s comments represent a breach of professional and ethical standards, undermining the rule of law and prosecutorial constitutionalism, a threat to institutional integrity, misogyny and gender–based insults, unconstructive criticism, personal attacks and defamation.”
The office of the DPP said the attacks by Ssemakadde have been sustained since Lady Justice Abodo assumed office, noting that she is a duly appointed judge of the High Court but also a celebrated prosecutor.
Apology
The office of the DPP asked that Ssemakadde apologises or he is sued.
“ The ODPP demands that Mr. Semakadde issues a public apology for his despicable remarks. In light of the gravity of Mr. Semakadde’s remarks, the ODPP reserves the right to pursue appropriate legal action and will engage with the relevant professional bodies to ensure that such conduct is addressed within the framework of accountability.”
“ We urge all Ugandans to focus on building a society grounded in mutual respect, the rule of law, and the shared goal of justice for all.”