Masaka Judge warns advocates over uncertified lawyers
By Hashim Kalungi
The Masaka High Court Resident Judge, Justice Fatuma Nanziri, has issued a warning to advocates over declining professional ethics, specifically highlighting the practice of sending lawyers without valid practicing certificates to represent clients in court.
Justice Nanziri revealed the consequence of this trend by citing a recent case in her own court that she was forced to adjourn three separate times because the appearing lawyer lacked the necessary certification.
“Our profession is designed in a way that we follow procedure in handling matters,” Justice Nanziri stated. “Unfortunately, some young lawyers are sent to High Court without practicing certificates. It affects their name as well as that of the firm, and the effects turn back to the legal profession.”
She made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at the Second Edition of the Greater Masaka Annual Legal Awards Dinner, organized by the Greater Masaka Court Reporters Guild (GMCRG) at the Maple Leaf Hotel in Masaka City on Saturday.
The judge emphasized that this practice not only endangers the careers of young lawyers but also directly harms the administration of justice.
“In such circumstances, the presiding judicial officers are left with no option but to adjourn the matter, which causes unnecessary delays and contributes to the high case backlog,” she explained.
She advised proprietors of law firms to hire qualified individuals and ensure that only properly certified advocates are sent to court.
A call for cooperation
While delivering a pointed critique, Justice Nanziri also called for unity among legal and media stakeholders in the region. She applauded the GMCRG for initiating the awards program, which aims to recognize excellence and foster stronger ties.
“This should be the beginning of strengthening how we serve,” she said.
“Without cooperation amongst ourselves—the judiciary, lawyers, and journalists—we can’t make Masaka great. It is the participation and unification we have that will ensure Masaka is written in good books.”
Echoing this sentiment, a speech delivered on behalf of Anthony Asiimwe, Vice President of the Uganda Law Society, commended journalists for their role.
“When journalists work hand in hand with the Bar and observe professionalism, it brings satisfaction to the public they serve. This partnership must continue,” the speech, read by Masaka Chapter President Alexander Lule, stated.
2025 Award winners honoured
The awards ceremony served to celebrate professional achievement across the Greater Masaka region, which encompasses ten local governments.
Esther Namugwe, Head of Research at GMCRG, said the program was established to “recognize excellence within the legal profession and to promote responsible court reporting.”
The 2025 award winners were:
- Senior Lawyer of the Year: Advocate John Baptist Kawanga of Kawanga & Kasule Advocates, recognized for over three decades of practice and mentorship.
- Female Lawyer of the Year: Advocate Dorah Kimani of Justice Centres Uganda, honoured for her dedication to legal aid and representing indigent clients.
- Human Rights Defender of the Year: Advocate Alexander Lule of Xander Advocates, cited for consistent rights advocacy.
- Outstanding Lawyer of the Year: Advocate Sam Ssekyewa of Ssekyewa, Matovu & Co. Advocates, praised for his mastery of complex litigation.
- Leading Law Firm of the Year: Ssekyewa, Matovu & Co. Advocates, recognized for its strong advisory and litigation practice.
Upon winning two awards, Advocate Ssekyewa attributed his firm’s success to “dedication and disciplined legal practice,” emphasizing thorough case assessment and honest client advice.
The event brought together judicial officers, advocates, journalists, and stakeholders, reinforcing the Guild’s mission to promote ethical practice and collaboration in the administration of justice across Greater Masaka.
