Court

Court summons Ssemakadde over alleged insult to DPP

Uganda Law Society President, Isaac Ssemakadde (Photo/Courtesy)

Kampala, (UG):- The Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court has summoned Uganda Law Society (ULS) president, Mr Isaac Ssemakadde, to appear before the court on January 29, 2025, over allegations of insulting the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Jane Frances Abodo.

The summons, issued by Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi came after determining there was sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against Mr Ssemakadde for the alleged offense of indecent assault, contrary to Section 115(3) of the Penal Code Act.

The allegations stem from remarks made by Mr. Ssemakadde during a symposium organized by the People’s Freedom Front (PFF) on November 18, 2024. During the event, he allegedly referred to Justice Abodo in derogatory terms, including calling her “a v***na from Karamoja,” “dead wood,” and “a pumpkin,” with the intention to insult her modesty.

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Court’s Findings

Magistrate Kayizzi stated that referring to a woman using offensive language about her private body parts is an act intended to insult her dignity. Evidence submitted included a video recording and a confirmation letter from the Local Council Chairperson, supported by testimony from the Ward Administrator, affirming that the remarks were made.

The court noted that although Justice Abodo did not file a complaint, Section 42(1)(c) and (3) of the Magistrates’ Courts Act allows any person with reasonable cause to lodge a complaint, making the case admissible.

The court dismissed Mr Ssemakadde’s application to strike out the complaint, in which his lawyers argued that the prosecution was brought in bad faith and infringed upon his rights to freedom of expression. Magistrate Kayizzi ruled that the court had jurisdiction to hear the matter, citing compliance with the relevant legal provisions.

Background

The complaint was initiated through private prosecution by lawyers Tonny Tumukunde and Joshua Byamazima, who alleged that Mr. Ssemakadde’s remarks during the symposium were demeaning and an attack on Justice Abodo’s integrity.

Mr. Kayizzi concluded that Mr Ssemakadde must appear in court on January 29, 2025, to respond to the charges and explain the context and intent of his remarks.

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