Uganda Law Society Demands Resignation of Judicial Service Commission Boss Over Gen Muhoozi Endorsement

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has formally demanded the resignation of Dr Douglas Singiza as chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission. The demand follows concerns over his alleged endorsement of Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s presidential ambitions for 2031.

In an official statement, ULS president Isaac K. Ssemakadde pointed to a circulating photograph showing Dr Singiza alongside MP Michael Mawanda at the Kampala headquarters of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU). Ssemakadde argued that participating in activities linked to a political organization compromises the political neutrality required of a senior judicial figure, particularly one heading a commission tasked with judicial appointments and discipline.

The society emphasizes that judicial officers must uphold strict impartiality under the Judicial Code of Conduct and the Bangalore Principles. ULS previously filed a constitutional petition challenging Dr Singiza’s appointment on grounds relating to integrity and statutory retirement requirements following full-time appointments outside the judiciary. The legal body is now urging the Constitutional Court to fast-track the petition.

Furthermore, the controversy unfolds amidst an ongoing campaign by PLU supporters endorsing Gen Muhoozi for the upcoming presidential race. The ULS has raised broader legal questions regarding the status of the PLU and the involvement of serving military officers in partisan activities, urging relevant authorities to address the matter. Read the full details in the Daily Monitor.