KAMPALA, Uganda | The President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), Isaac Ssemakadde, has suspended Chief Executive Officer Ms. Mable Nimwesiga amid allegations of impropriety in the recruitment process for the position she currently holds. The suspension, described as investigative, will last for ten working days to allow for a thorough review of the concerns raised.

The allegations stem from Ms. Nimwesiga’s actions during the recruitment process. It is reported that she applied for the CEO position on May 11, 2024, but subsequently issued instructions regarding the recruitment process on June 13 and 14. Further, she signed a contract on July 2, 2024, with JOBCONNECT LTD, a recruitment firm engaged to shortlist candidates, verify qualifications, and evaluate applicants for the CEO role. The overlap of her candidacy with her involvement in the process has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and professional misconduct.

President Ssemakadde, while announcing the suspension, noted the gravity of the matter and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability. He pointed out the inconsistency of Ms. Nimwesiga issuing recruitment instructions while being a candidate for the same position, describing it as behavior that warranted further scrutiny.

During the suspension period, Ms. Nimwesiga has been relieved of her duties as CEO and is restricted from accessing ULS offices, including Legal Aid Project clinics and ULS electronic systems, unless specifically authorized by the Council. She will, however, receive half of her salary during this period.

Ms. Nimwesiga is required to provide a written response to the allegations within five working days and is expected to cooperate fully with the investigative committee tasked with reviewing the matter. The findings from the investigation will guide the Council’s next steps regarding her position.