The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has formally rejected a long-standing Shs 5 billion pledge made by Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, declaring an end to any reliance on government donations as it moves to safeguard the independence of the legal profession.
In an executive order issued on March 19, 2026, from ULS House in Kololo, Kampala, ULS President Isaac K. Ssemakadde announced the immediate termination of what he described as a “begging posture” towards the government.
The decision effectively severs all efforts to pursue or acknowledge the unfulfilled 2018 presidential pledge.
The Society criticized the pledge as symbolic of broader concerns over government spending priorities, pointing to rising State House expenditures and classified budgets.
ULS leaders argued that such financial inducements risk compromising the Bar’s autonomy and weakening its role in holding power accountable.
At the same time, the legal body celebrated the near completion of its headquarters, noting that the ULS House project has been achieved largely through contributions from its members rather than government support.
The milestone was highlighted as evidence of self-reliance and collective discipline within the profession.
“The independence of the Bar is paramount,” the statement emphasized, reaffirming ULS’s commitment to operate free from political influence or financial coercion.
The order also revokes all mandates previously given to representatives tasked with pursuing the pledge or similar funding.
Going forward, the Society says it will focus on legal and institutional reforms aimed at improving the financial sustainability of both advocates and the organization itself.
The directive takes immediate effect and will remain in force unless amended or rescinded by the ULS Governing Council.
