135 Lawyers Enrolled as Advocates, Urged to Uphold Integrity and Justice

Kampala-A total of 135 lawyers have been formally enrolled as Advocates of the Courts of Judicature in a ceremony presided over by the Acting Chief Registrar, HW Lamunu Pamella Ocaya, at the Court of Appeal Conference Hall in Kampala.

Describing the occasion as a blessing, HW Lamunu said the milestone would not have been possible without God’s grace. She congratulated the newly enrolled advocates upon joining the learned profession and reminded them that while the legal profession carries power, prestige, and status, it also demands immense responsibility.

She acknowledged the presence of representatives from the Uganda Law Society and the Secretary to the Law Council, noting that their attendance reflected institutional commitment to mentoring and guiding young professionals at the start of their legal careers.

HW Lamunu emphasized that advocates owe duties not only to their clients but also to the court and the wider community. As officers of court, she urged them to assist judicial officers in reaching just decisions in line with Article 126(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, which requires justice to be administered fairly, without delay, and without undue regard to technicalities. She cautioned that only well-read and well-prepared advocates can meet the high constitutional standards expected of the profession.

While advocates are duty-bound to defend and protect their clients’ interests, she stressed that they must never subvert the cause of justice. In instances where a conflict arises between duty to the court and a client’s interests, she advised them to act with courage and integrity, even if it means declining representation. She likened an advocate to a high priest in the temple of justice, guided at all times by fairness and righteousness.

The Acting Chief Registrar encouraged the new advocates to contribute to societal transformation through pro bono services and by using their privileged position to uplift others. She underscored that success in legal practice is anchored in strict observance of ethics, professionalism, honesty, diligence, competence, transparency, compassion, and sobriety. Good legal practice, she emphasized, is not about ends justifying means, but about ensuring ethical standards guide every process.

Representing the Secretary to the Law Council, Senior State Attorney Ms Diana Kahuma congratulated the advocates on reaching the milestone, describing enrolment as the true beginning of their professional journey. She urged them to respect the code of conduct, work hard, continuously improve their skills, and maintain strong client care.

Mr Babu Ssali, Acting Secretary of the Uganda Law Society, reminded the new advocates that legal practice is not solely about serving clients but also about safeguarding the public interest and upholding the rule of law. He encouraged them to maintain a strong moral compass, avoid cutting corners, seek mentorship, pursue continuous learning, and strive for steady professional growth.

Moderating the ceremony, HW Fidelis Otwao, Personal Assistant to the Chief Registrar, expressed appreciation to the Acting Chief Registrar for her leadership in presiding over the enrolment ceremony.

Parents and guardians witnessed the signing of the Roll of Advocates, marking the official admission of the 135 lawyers into legal practice. Among those present was the Executive Director of the National Planning Authority, Owek. Dr Joseph Muvawala Nsekere, who also serves as Prime Minister of the Busoga Kingdom.