By KT Reporter
A group of MPs from the Karamoja Sub-region has demanded an immediate public apology and the resignation of Isaac Ssemakade, President of the Uganda Law Society. The MPs accuse Ssemakade of making vulgar and derogatory remarks about the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Jane Frances Abodo, and of disparaging Karamoja in his comments.
During a press briefing at Parliament, Matheniko County MP John Baptist Lokii expressed outrage over Ssemakade’s remarks, which reportedly included references to the DPP’s genitalia. Lokii’s reaction was particularly strong, as he questioned the nature of Ssemakade’s upbringing and his ability to express himself professionally.
“This isn’t only an insult to Abodo; it is an insult to women worldwide,” Lokii said. “For someone to demean the creation of God and women in such a way, it must come from a diabolical mindset. Such vulgarity is unacceptable, and Ssemakade owes the DPP and the nation an apology.”
Lokii also noted that this was not the first time Ssemakade had targeted the DPP, recalling similar remarks when Abodo was first appointed. He argued that Ssemakade’s continued behavior showed a lack of reform and called for his resignation.
“The people of Karamoja and Uganda demand that Ssemakade steps down immediately,” Lokii said. “He has disrespected the legal profession, and the trust placed in him as President of the Uganda Law Society.”
Napak District Woman MP Faith Nakut echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the offensive nature of Ssemakade’s remarks. She highlighted the significance of Abodo’s rise to the position of DPP as a testament to her resilience and hard work, especially given the challenges faced by women from Karamoja.
“To ridicule someone who has overcome so much to serve this country is disgraceful,” Nakut said. “Our girls look up to Abodo as a role model. When Ssemakade makes such vulgar comments, it insults all of us.”
Nakut also condemned the inclusion of Karamoja in Ssemakade’s attacks, questioning why the region was dragged into the matter. She called on the Uganda Law Society to uphold its professional standards and demanded an immediate public apology from Ssemakade.
Dodoth North MP Joseph Komol joined the condemnation, describing Ssemakade’s remarks as “vulgar” and “madness.” He noted that the people of Karamoja were deeply offended by the statements and supported the calls for legal action and public demonstrations.
The MPs’ press briefing followed a statement by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) demanding an apology from Ssemakade. The ODPP described his remarks as “grossly inflammatory, unprofessional, and deeply disrespectful,” adding that they undermine the integrity of the criminal justice system and perpetuate misogyny.
“The ODPP demands that Mr. Ssemakade issues a public apology for his despicable remarks,” the statement read. “In light of the gravity of his comments, the ODPP reserves the right to pursue appropriate legal action and will engage with relevant professional bodies to ensure accountability.”
The MPs also revealed plans for demonstrations in Kampala and Karamoja, led by women protesting Ssemakade’s comments. They vowed to take legal action to hold him accountable for his statements.
Ssemakade made the controversial remarks during a symposium hosted by the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF). A video of his comments circulated on social media, sparking widespread backlash and prompting demands for action from various stakeholders-Parliament watch. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
