Judicial leaders have called on the newly enrolled advocates to serve justice with integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to justice as they step into Uganda’s legal profession.
These remarks were made at the enrollment ceremony, held at the Court of Appeal Conference Hall in Kampala, which saw 135 advocates officially enrolled as Advocates of the Courts of Judicature.
The ceremony was presided over by Acting Chief Registrar Pamella Lamunu Ocaya, who described the occasion as both a major achievement and a solemn responsibility for the new entrants.
It was attended by parents and guardians as the advocates signed the Roll of Advocates, officially marking their entry into legal practice.
Addressing the advocates, the Acting Chief Registrar congratulated them for joining the esteemed legal profession, highlighting that while a career in law brings prestige and influence, it equally demands discipline, ethical conduct, and dedication.
“This important achievement would not have been possible without God’s grace, and also marks the beginning of a lifelong duty to serve justice and society,” Lamunu said.
She emphasized that the legal profession carries power, status, and recognition but also immense responsibility.
Reminding the advocates that their obligations extend beyond representing clients, Lamunu highlighted their role in serving both the courts and the wider community.
As officers of the court, lawyers are critical in assisting judicial officers to reach fair and just decisions.
Citing Article 126(2) of the Constitution, she stressed that justice must be delivered fairly, promptly, and without undue focus on technicalities, urging the new advocates to stay well-read, knowledgeable, and thoroughly prepared.
“Only advocates who are well-prepared and deeply knowledgeable can uphold the high constitutional standards of this profession,” she added.
While recognizing the duty advocates owe to their clients, the Acting Chief Registrar cautioned against compromising justice in pursuit of personal success.
“Whenever your duty to the court conflicts with a client’s interests, you must choose integrity over convenience, for an advocate is like a high priest in the temple of justice, always guided by fairness, honor, and the pursuit of what is right,” Lamunu emphasized.
She further encouraged the new advocates to leverage their professional privilege to contribute to societal transformation through pro bono services and community initiatives.
“Success in legal practice is anchored in ethics, professionalism, honesty, diligence, competence, transparency, compassion, and sobriety,” Lamunu noted.
Diana Kahuma, Senior State Attorney representing the Secretary to the Law Council, congratulated the advocates and described the enrollment as the true beginning of their professional journey.
She urged them to respect the code of conduct, continuously improve their skills, and prioritize client care.
Additionally, Babu Ssali, Acting Secretary of the Uganda Law Society, reminded the new lawyers that legal practice extends beyond serving individual clients; it includes safeguarding public interest and upholding the rule of law.
He encouraged them to seek mentorship and pursue continuous learning throughout their careers.
Judicial officials noted that the enrollment reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen professionalism and ethical standards within Uganda’s legal system as new advocates join the judiciary’s ranks.
The enrollment of these 135 advocates shows Uganda’s commitment to a legal profession grounded in integrity, competence, and service to society.
As they embark on their careers, judicial leaders and legal authorities alike expect them to uphold the rule of law, promote justice, and contribute meaningfully to the development of the nation’s legal system.
