The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has intensified criticism of recent judicial transfers, linking them to decisions made by magistrates in politically sensitive cases and warning of growing pressure on the bench.
ULS President Isaac Ssemakadde cited a series of transfers involving magistrates who granted bail to high-profile figures, arguing that the pattern points to interference rather than routine administration.
Magistrate Gloria Atim, who granted bail to former minister Miria Matembe, was moved to Kiboga shortly after the ruling. Ivan Ssenoga, who handled the bail application of journalist Timothy Kalyegira, has been reassigned to Luweero.
William Muwonge, who granted bail to 21 National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters, has also been transferred.
“The pattern is unmistakable,” Ssemakadde said. “Magistrate Gloria Atim who granted Hon. Miria Matembe bail is shipped off to Kiboga. Ivan Ssenoga, who did the same for Timothy Kalyegira, is banished to Luweero.”
“And William Muwonge? Barely settled in Kawempe in January 2025 before he made the ‘mistake’ of granting bail to 21 NUP supporters. Now he’s paying the price,” he added.
Ssemakadde rejected suggestions that the transfers are routine, stating: “This is not judicial administration. This is judicial harassment dressed in the robes of transfer orders.”
He argued that the decisions risk undermining confidence in the judiciary, particularly where magistrates are seen to face consequences after exercising discretion provided for under the law.
“When magistrates exercise their lawful discretion to grant bail—a constitutional right—and are immediately punished with remote postings, the message is loud and clear: follow instructions, not the law,” he said.
The ULS president further accused the Executive of extending its influence into judicial operations, warning of broader implications for governance and the rule of law.
“The Executive’s long arm reaches into every courtroom, every chamber, and now, every transfer letter,” he stated. “We are watching. We are documenting. And we will not be silent.”
He also framed the issue as part of a wider struggle over judicial independence across the country.
“The battle for judicial independence is not fought in the boardrooms of Kampala alone,” Ssemakadde said.
“It is fought in the dusty towns of Kiboga, Luweero, and wherever else the regime decides to exile inconvenient judicial officers.”
Addressing the affected magistrates directly, he added: “You are not forgotten. You are the conscience of this profession.”
“The Uganda Law Society stands with you. We will pursue this matter to the last breath,” he said.