The Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court has issued an arrest warrant for Uganda Law Society (ULS) President Isaac Ssemakadde after he failed to appear in court to answer charges of allegedly insulting the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Jane Frances Abodo.
The Charges
Ssemakadde, known for his outspoken criticism of government officials, was summoned to court over allegations of making indecent and insulting statements about DPP Abodo in 2022.
Despite being served with criminal summons twice, he did not attend the scheduled hearings.
On February 24, 2025, Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi issued the arrest warrant after Ssemakadde’s lawyer, Derrick Bazekuketta, failed to provide sufficient reasons for his client’s absence.
What’s Next?
If Ssemakadde is outside Uganda, authorities may seek an international arrest warrant (Red Notice) through Interpol.
A Red Notice alerts law enforcement agencies worldwide to detain and extradite the suspect to Uganda.
While Interpol cannot enforce arrests, countries that recognize Red Notices and have extradition agreements with Uganda may detain Ssemakadde upon entry.
However, he can challenge extradition on political or legal grounds.
Why This Matters
The case highlights tensions between Uganda’s legal fraternity and government officials. Ssemakadde’s absence from court has raised questions about accountability and the rule of law, especially for high-profile figures.
