National • 22 December 2025

Uganda Law Society Breaks Political Neutrality, Endorses Bobi Wine Ahead of 2026 Polls

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has formally abandoned its long-standing tradition of political neutrality, openly endorsing opposition candidates for the 2026 general elections in a move that has sparked debate across the legal and political landscape.

In a statement issued on Sunday, December 21st, ULS President Isaac Ssemakadde announced that the Society would support National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, for president, alongside a slate of opposition candidates at national and local levels.

The decision, described by the Society as extraordinary but necessary, marks the first time the country’s umbrella body for lawyers has directly backed candidates in a national election.

According to Ssemakadde, the endorsement follows what he described as a sustained deterioration of the rule of law, judicial independence and constitutional governance under the current administration.

“The excessive militarisation of civilian and political life, entrenched corruption and impunity, and the capture of state institutions have reached a point where neutrality amounts to complicity,” he said.

Endorsed candidates

Under the directive, the ULS endorsed:

Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu for President of Uganda;

Erias Lukwago for re-election as Lord Mayor of Kampala;

Dr Obuku Ekwaro Anthony for Member of Parliament, Oyam South;

All candidates from the National Unity Platform (NUP) and the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) contesting at all levels;

Lawyers and law students standing for elective office nationwide.

The Society said the endorsed candidates represent the most credible platform for restoring constitutional order, strengthening accountability, empowering youth and safeguarding the independence of institutions.

Sharp criticism of state institutions

In the statement, the ULS sharply criticised security agencies and state institutions, accusing them of suppressing dissent through abductions, torture, unlawful arrests and the trial of civilians in military courts.

The Society also claimed the judiciary has been weakened through political interference, alleging manipulated appointments and rulings that undermine judicial independence.

Ssemakadde warned that continued silence by the legal profession would amount to a betrayal of its constitutional mandate to defend justice and the rule of law.

Call to mobilise

The ULS called on its members, law students, civil society organisations and citizens to actively support the endorsed candidates and participate in efforts to safeguard the electoral process.

The directive takes immediate effect and will remain in force until the conclusion of the 2026 general elections, or until it is lawfully revoked.

The move has already generated mixed reactions, with some welcoming it as a bold stand for constitutionalism, while others question whether a professional body should take an overt political position.