The Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Nakawa West, has officially been enrolled as an advocate of the High Court of Uganda. The enrollment was conducted by the Law Council, granting him full rights to practice law and represent Ugandans in the courts of justice.
To become an advocate, one must hold a law degree, complete a diploma in legal practice from the Law Development Centre (LDC), and register a law firm certified by the Law Council. Hon. Ssenyonyi now joins this esteemed group of professionals ready to serve both inside and outside Parliament.
The ceremony took place on August 21, 2025, at the Judiciary Headquarters in Kampala, where 115 new advocates were enrolled to the Bar. The Radical New Bar (RNB) was represented by its Vice President, Anthony Asiimwe, who stood in for the Society’s President, Isaac Ssemakadde, Senior Counsel. In his powerful remarks, Asiimwe reminded the newly admitted lawyers of the sacred duty they now carry, describing the legal profession as one of great responsibility, legacy, and potential for transformation.
“You are no longer ordinary individuals,” the Vice President declared. “You are part of a noble tradition that demands service, excellence, and integrity.” He further encouraged the new advocates to embrace the Society’s vision for the future, known as RNB Vision 2060, built on four strong pillars: Decolonization, Demilitarization, Democratization, and Digital Transformation. He explained that this vision was not just a dream but a practical call for lawyers to actively shape Uganda into a better nation by the year 2060.
The Vice President also urged the new advocates to uphold the highest moral standards in their personal and professional lives. “Be bold, be ethical, and be just,” he said. “Let your life and practice reflect the nobility of this profession.”
Among the distinguished group was Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, whose enrollment drew special attention as he balances his role as Leader of Opposition in Parliament with his new role as an advocate of the High Court. His entry into the Bar marks a new chapter in his service to the people of Uganda, not only in shaping laws but also in fighting for justice directly in the courtroom.
The event was both a celebration and a reminder that the legal profession remains a cornerstone in the fight for justice, democracy, and transformation in Uganda.
