Katonga faction of FDC condemns Government's interference in Uganda Law Society elections

The Katonga faction of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), also known as the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), has voiced concerns over the government's attempts to influence the outcome of the Uganda Law Society elections.

During a press conference, Deputy Lord Mayor and PFF member, Doreen Nyanjura, condemned state interference and praised the legal fraternity for resisting these efforts.

Nyanjura congratulated lawyer Isaac Semakade, who was overwhelmingly elected as the new president of the Uganda Law Society on September 28, 2024, despite reported attempts by the ruling party to subvert the election process.

"We are aware that state actors, including the Attorney General, tried to manipulate the outcome by paying for loyalist subscriptions and ferrying them to Munyonyo," Nyanjura stated, noting that these tactics were unsuccessful due to the resilience of the legal community.

The PFF sees Semakade's victory as a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for the restoration of the rule of law in Uganda. Nyanjura emphasised that the judiciary, the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and the Attorney General’s office have increasingly aligned with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), contributing to the suppression of human rights.

Nyanjura highlighted several cases in which legal institutions have facilitated the detention of NRM opponents on politically motivated charges such as terrorism and public nuisance. She also pointed out that many NRM opponents have been unlawfully tried in military courts, which are controlled directly by the government.

"The fire exhibited by the legal fraternity should inspire other professional bodies like medical workers, teachers, and journalists to join the fight for the restoration of rule of law in Uganda," Nyanjura declared, urging lawyers to take an active role in opposing the increasing authoritarianism of the current regime.

She encouraged advocates to step out of their chambers and join the struggle for constitutional order, comparing the situation in Uganda to the professional-led movements that brought about change in countries like Sudan and Pakistan.

The press conference concluded with Nyanjura reiterating the PFF’s commitment to challenging the NRM’s grip on Uganda’s key institutions, including the judiciary and law enforcement. The faction urged Ugandans to remain vigilant and continue demanding accountability from those in power.