A Makerere University School of Law student has written an open letter to Justice Dr. Emmanuel Baguma, urging him to uphold judicial independence, protect constitutional rights and administer justice without fear or favour in the ongoing case involving veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye.
The student, SSENTAMU Mukasa Ssewandagi, said his message was not intended to interfere with court proceedings but rather to remind all Ugandans about the importance of protecting constitutional principles and ensuring that justice remains independent.
In his letter addressed to Justice Baguma, Ssewandagi acknowledged the importance of the Judiciary and the constitutional office held by judges, emphasizing that courts remain one of the strongest pillars in protecting citizens’ rights.
He referred to Article 128 of the Uganda Constitution, which guarantees the independence of the Judiciary, saying judges must always be free to make decisions based on the law without external influence or pressure.
The law student also pointed to Article 3 of the Constitution, which places a responsibility on citizens to defend and uphold the Constitution, explaining that his letter was written in that spirit.
Ssewandagi argued that Uganda’s history has been shaped by struggles aimed at restoring the rule of law and ensuring that institutions operate according to constitutional principles rather than personal interests.
He said the Constitution established a system where all citizens and institutions, regardless of their position, remain subject to the supreme law of the country.
According to him, the strength of the Judiciary does not come from authority alone but from the trust and confidence citizens have that courts will deliver justice fairly and independently.
He noted that judicial officers are expected to make decisions without fear, favour, affection or ill will, especially in cases that attract significant public attention.
The Makerere law student said the proceedings involving Dr. Kizza Besigye have generated widespread debate because of the political importance surrounding the matter.
However, he stressed that regardless of political opinions, every accused person deserves constitutional protections, including the right to a fair hearing before an independent and impartial court.
He highlighted Article 28 of the Constitution, which guarantees every person the right to a fair, speedy and public hearing, saying such protections are essential in maintaining confidence in the justice system.
Ssewandagi emphasized that one of the most important elements of a fair trial is allowing an accused person to adequately prepare a defence and have access to proper legal representation.
He argued that constitutional rights become most important during difficult and controversial cases because that is when institutions are tested.
The student further reminded Justice Baguma that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done by the public.
He explained that public confidence in courts depends not only on the final decisions reached but also on whether the process appears fair, transparent and respectful of constitutional guarantees.
Ssewandagi said concerns raised by citizens about court processes should be treated as opportunities for reflection rather than attacks on the Judiciary.
He added that constructive criticism of public institutions, when made respectfully and in good faith, can strengthen democracy and improve public trust.
The law student also said young lawyers and law students closely observe court proceedings because every judicial decision teaches future generations about the meaning of constitutionalism and justice.
He encouraged Justice Baguma to leave behind a legacy defined by fairness, equality before the law, judicial independence and commitment to constitutional values.
In his closing remarks, Ssewandagi said Ugandans continue to look to the Judiciary as a guardian of justice and urged Justice Baguma to remain firm in following the right path and administering justice without fear.
He concluded by saying that history remembers judges who stand by principles during challenging moments and protect the rule of law for future generations.
