Former Ugandan minister Dr. Miria Matembe has reaffirmed her commitment to the rule of law following her recent release on bail, even as concerns persist over the treatment of political and civic actors in the country.
In a statement released on Sunday, July 5, the Uganda Law Society (ULS) confirmed that its Vice Chairperson of the Section 3C Committee, Steven Kalali, alongside Vice President Anthony Asiimwe, paid a courtesy visit to Matembe at her residence in Luzira.
The visit came days after she was granted bail by the Luzira Magistrate’s Court on July 1.
The delegation, which also included Centre for Constitutional Governance Executive Director Dr. Sarah Bireete, said the visit was aimed at checking on Matembe’s recovery following what it described as a difficult ordeal leading up to her detention and subsequent release.
According to ULS, the former minister remained firm and composed despite the experience, using the meeting to reiterate her long-standing stance on justice and constitutionalism.
“Dr. Matembe vowed to remain resolute in her resistance to lawlessness, reaffirming that there is no turning back in the pursuit of justice and the rule of law,” the statement noted.
Her remarks come at a time when civil society groups and legal practitioners in Uganda have increasingly raised alarm over what they describe as a shrinking civic space and rising incidents of arbitrary arrests.
During the interaction, Matembe also commended the Uganda Law Society for its continued advocacy, particularly as it marks 70 years of promoting human rights and legal accountability in the country.
She urged the legal fraternity to remain steadfast in defending constitutional principles amid ongoing challenges.
ULS officials echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the need for collective action in upholding justice and resisting actions they consider contrary to the rule of law.
Matembe, a veteran politician and outspoken governance advocate, has in recent years remained vocal on issues of accountability, often criticizing state actions she views as undermining democratic principles.