The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has criticised authorities over what it described as the illegal arrest of Kakuru Tumusiime, a lawyer affiliated with the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Tumusiime was reportedly arrested on Monday as he attempted to access his client at the residence of NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi in Magere. He had been accompanied by a team of party leaders led by the party’s Deputy President for Eastern Uganda, John Baptist Nambeshe.
According to ULS, Tumusiime was allegedly taken to Kawempe Division Police Command under heavy security deployment, without any immediate official explanation from authorities regarding the basis of his arrest or detention.
In a statement released on Monday, ULS said the arrest and transfer of the advocate contravened core protections that allow lawyers to freely consult with their clients, represent causes regardless of political sensitivity, and perform their professional duties without intimidation, harassment, or improper interference from state authorities.
“No lawyer should face detention or sanction simply for fulfilling their ethical obligations to provide legal assistance,” the statement reads in part, emphasising the society’s commitment to upholding the independence of the legal profession and safeguarding the fundamental guarantees necessary for lawyers to discharge their duties without fear.
ULS cited several fundamental principles protecting lawyers, including Principle 16, which provides that lawyers must be able to perform their professional functions without intimidation, hindrance or harassment; travel and consult with clients freely within and outside their country; and not suffer prosecution or other sanctions for actions taken in accordance with recognised professional standards.
The society also referenced Principle 17, which requires authorities to adequately safeguard lawyers whose security is threatened as a result of their work, and Principle 18, which states that lawyers should not be identified with their clients or their clients’ causes solely by virtue of representing them.
Internationally, the International Bar Association (IBA) Standards under Standard 6 similarly provide that lawyers must act freely, diligently and fearlessly in accordance with the legitimate interests of their clients, without inhibition or pressure from authorities or the public.
ULS urged relevant authorities to immediately clarify the legal basis for Tumusiime’s arrest and ensure that his rights are fully respected, including prompt access to legal counsel, family members and medical attention if necessary.
The society further called for his swift release if no valid grounds exist for continued detention, an end to actions that hinder lawyers’ access to clients or interfere with the administration of justice, and the upholding of safeguards for lawyers’ security when their safety is threatened due to their professional duties.
“The society stands in solidarity with Adv. Kakuru Tumusiime and all members of the legal profession facing similar challenges. We have constituted a team of pro bono advocates ready to provide legal support in this matter. We will continue to monitor developments closely and advocate vigorously for the protection of lawyers’ independence as an essential pillar of the rule of law and access to justice in Uganda,” the statement added.
