Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has strongly criticized the use of vulgar language by Uganda Law Society (ULS) President Isaac Ssemakadde in his comments about Frances Abodo, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The controversial remarks, which included offensive references to Abodo’s gender and ethnicity, have sparked outrage and calls for accountability.
During a plenary session, Napak District Woman MP Faith Nakut urged Parliament to condemn Ssemakadde’s statements, emphasizing the importance of maintaining respect for women in all spheres of public life. She noted that such derogatory language undermines ongoing efforts to combat gender-based violence, particularly during the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign.
“Disrespecting women in such a vile manner is unacceptable,” Nakut said. “These are our mothers, sisters, and daughters. We must uphold their dignity, especially in positions of leadership.”
Speaker Among echoed Nakut’s concerns, condemning the remarks as not only vulgar but also a threat to societal values. She posed a rhetorical question, asking, “Would you want your children exposed to such language?” Among, however, stopped short of leading Parliament in an official condemnation, suggesting that the Uganda Law Society, which operates under parliamentary oversight, should address the issue.
Nakut further elaborated on the comments, pointing out that Ssemakadde allegedly used ethnic slurs and inappropriate comparisons to demean the DPP. She called on Parliament to set a precedent by opposing the normalization of such language. However, some MPs argued that without verifiable evidence, such as recordings or documented statements, addressing the issue could be premature.
The debate coincided with Parliament’s observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which aims to highlight the urgency of protecting women and girls from abuse. Bukwo Woman MP Evelyn Chemutai drew attention to recent crime statistics, noting that domestic violence remains a pervasive issue in Uganda. According to the 2023 Police Annual Crime Report, over 15,000 cases of domestic violence were recorded, with women disproportionately affected.
“Many women suffer in silence, facing violence, economic disempowerment, and loss of property rights,” Chemutai said. “Intimate partner violence is disturbingly high and often escalates to deadly consequences.”
Other legislators called for more practical interventions to address gender-based violence. Kagoma North MP Brandon Kintu criticized the tendency to rely on workshops and discussions, urging instead for tangible actions and increased funding for gender-focused programs.
Meanwhile, Brenda Nabukenya, Vice Chairperson of the Uganda Women Parliamentary Association (UWOPA), outlined the objectives of this year’s activism campaign. Running from November 25 to December 10, the campaign, themed “Recommitment, Accountability, and Resources,” seeks to evaluate progress in addressing gender-based violence and reinforce commitments to ending abuse.
Advocates from civil society organizations also weighed in, highlighting systemic challenges. FIDA Uganda’s Communication Officer, Omega Aloyo, pointed out the justice system’s inefficiencies, which often deny survivors their day in court. “While thousands of cases are reported annually, only a small fraction make it to court, leaving many victims without justice,” Aloyo said.
Programs Officer Ann Nassamula from the Center for Domestic Violence Prevention (CEDOVIP) urged Ugandans to take a stand against abuse. “This is a societal issue. We all have a role to play in supporting survivors and preventing violence in our communities,” she said.
As the 16 Days of Activism campaign continues, lawmakers and advocates alike are calling for a renewed focus on addressing cultural, legal, and systemic barriers to ending gender-based violence in Uganda.