By Ben Musanje
Uganda’s political tensions escalated on Monday after Uganda Law Society President Isaac K. Ssemakadde issued a strongly worded open letter condemning the planned swearing-in ceremony of President Yoweri Museveni at Kololo Independence Grounds, describing it as a “charade” and a symbol of “illegitimate rule.”
In the statement issued from exile, Ssemakadde linked the heavy military deployment across Kampala to what he described as a deepening constitutional and judicial crisis following the disputed 15 January 2026 presidential election.
Security forces have maintained a tight lockdown in parts of Kampala since last week ahead of Museveni’s inauguration ceremony, with several roads leading to Kololo Hill closed and access heavily restricted. Foreign dignitaries are expected to attend the event.
However, Ssemakadde argued that the Electoral Commission has not fulfilled the legal requirements necessary to validate the election outcome. He accused the Commission of failing to publish polling-station-level presidential results, declaration forms, and detailed vote tallies that would allow independent verification of Museveni’s victory.
The Uganda Law Society had previously raised similar concerns in its 5 February 2026 Election Observation Report. According to Ssemakadde, the issue is now also the subject of a case jointly filed with the East Africa Law Society before the East African Court of Justice in Arusha.
“The non-disclosure of detailed poll results undermines transparency and accountability standards required by Ugandan law and the East African Community Treaty,” he wrote.
Ssemakadde further criticized the judiciary for what he called its willingness to “formally endorse” an electoral process allegedly protected by military force.
In his letter, he described Kololo Hill as a lasting symbol of colonial domination and authoritarian rule, citing its historical role as an elite colonial enclave and strategic security zone. He argued that the venue reflects the government’s growing isolation from ordinary Ugandans.
“The current regime has proven itself a worthy successor to colonial occupation,” he stated, accusing authorities of relying on armed force and intimidation to maintain power.
The outspoken lawyer also referenced allegations of political detentions, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings documented during the election period, insisting that “ceremonial pomp cannot replace accountability.”
Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for nearly four decades, is set to begin another term amid continued criticism from opposition groups, civil society organizations, and regional observers. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
