A section of lawyers under the Uganda Law Society (ULS) has openly rejected an Executive Order issued by the Society’s Governing Council, accusing the leadership of abandoning the long-standing principle of political non-partisanship.
In a strongly worded statement dated December 29, 2025, and signed by dozens of advocates, the lawyers expressed “deep disappointment and outright condemnation” of Executive Order RNB No. 6 of 2025, issued on December 21. The order is faulted for endorsing a particular presidential candidate and party flag bearers, a move critics say undermines the credibility and independence of the legal profession.
The lawyers argue that political neutrality is the foundation of ULS’ legitimacy and moral authority. They warn that once the Society is perceived as partisan, it risks losing public trust and its ability to serve all citizens fairly, regardless of political affiliation.
“As officers of court, defenders of the rule of law and custodians of constitutionalism, lawyers must remain independent, objective and guided solely by the law,” the statement reads.
“Neutrality does not mean silence in the face of injustice, but engagement from a principled, constitutional and evidence-based standpoint—not politics.”
The signatories further accuse the ULS Governing Council of acting without consultation and departing from established custom and tradition. They caution that such actions threaten unity within the Society, which brings together members from across the political divide, including NRM, NUP, FDC, DP, JEEMA and other parties.
The statement calls on all ULS members and stakeholders to disregard the impugned Executive Order in order to protect the Society’s non-partisan character, national cohesion and the rule of law.
The lawyers also reaffirm ULS’ long-standing policy of political neutrality in the conduct of its institutional affairs.
“History will remember this Council,” the statement warns, “as the one that killed the Uganda Law Society,” unless corrective action is taken.
The development exposes growing internal tensions within the ULS leadership and membership, coming at a time when the country is heading into an intense electoral period. The ULS Governing Council had not yet publicly responded to the lawyers’ protest by the time of publication.
The Uganda Law Society has traditionally positioned itself as an independent professional body, often speaking out on issues of constitutionalism, human rights and governance. Observers say how the leadership handles this backlash may shape the Society’s standing and influence in the months ahead.
