The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has strongly opposed President Yoweri Museveni’s directive banning police bonds for suspects accused of embezzling funds from government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, labeling the move as unconstitutional and regressive.
In a statement released on January 1, 2025, ULS President Isaac Ssemakadde criticized the directive, arguing it violates key constitutional rights, including the presumption of innocence and the separation of powers. Citing Articles 23, 28(3)(a), and 99 of the Constitution, Ssemakadde emphasized the importance of safeguarding due process and upholding human rights.
“This directive blatantly contravenes the Constitution and echoes a colonial-era approach to repression and mass incarceration,” Ssemakadde said.
He reiterated the society’s commitment to addressing police misconduct and prosecutorial overreach, urging stakeholders to adhere to the Human Rights (Enforcement) Act to ensure justice and accountability.
The ULS president also appealed to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to conduct thorough investigations before making arrests and to focus on just and efficient prosecution of corruption cases.
“No individual should be arbitrarily deprived of their liberty due to bureaucratic incompetence or overreach,” he stated.
Ssemakadde warned against what the ULS termed the “police-to-prison pipeline,” which disproportionately affects the poor, civil society activists, and members of the political opposition. He urged a shift toward a justice system that prioritizes human rights and fairness.
President Yoweri Museveni announced the directive during his December 31, 2024, address at his Rwakitura residence, positioning the ban as a measure to combat petty crimes, including livestock and coffee theft. He declared that police officers issuing bonds for suspects whose cases are trial-ready would face punitive action.
The president further suggested reactivating Local Defence Unit (LDU) personnel to address crime in rural areas and proposed engaging idle youths in productive activities.
“If the authorities fail to act, I will involve the UPDF to protect farmers and wealth creators,” Museveni warned.
Under Ugandan law, police bonds are free, and suspects must be charged in court or released within 48 hours. Legal experts and human rights activists argue that the president’s directive undermines these provisions, increasing the risk of arbitrary detention and potential human rights abuses.
The ULS also criticized Museveni’s remarks referring to suspects as “village thieves,” urging respect for due process and the presumption of innocence.
“Such rhetoric undermines the integrity of the justice system and stigmatizes individuals before they are proven guilty,” Ssemakadde said.
In its statement, the ULS called on all stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and prioritize justice in Uganda’s legal framework.
“As we begin this New Law Year, let us commit to building a justice system that truly serves the people. This is not only a duty to ourselves but a legacy for our children and future generations,” the statement concluded.
The ULS has vowed to continue advocating for reforms that strengthen Uganda’s legal and judicial systems while protecting the fundamental rights of all citizens.
