The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has directed its members to stop addressing judges as “My Lord,” “My Lady,” “Your Lordship,” “Your Worship,” and other similar honorifics, describing the titles as part of a colonial courtroom culture that should no longer define Uganda’s justice system.

The directive, issued through Executive Order RNB No. 12 of 2026 by exiled Uganda Law Society President Isaac Ssemakadde, also instructs advocates to stop bowing before judges in court and address judicial officers using professional titles such as “Justice,” “Mr Justice,” “Madam Justice,” “Honourable Judge” or “Your Honour,” depending on the court and the office held.

The move to abolish what the directive describes as “feudal and colonial honorifics” has sparked debate, with supporters welcoming it as a step towards modernising Uganda’s justice system. The Judiciary, however, has rejected the directive and insists that existing courtroom traditions remain in force.

Why Is the Uganda Law Society Making This Change?
For people who have never been inside a courtroom, titles such as “My Lord” and “My Lady” may seem like ordinary signs of respect. The Uganda Law Society, however, contends they are remnants of Britain’s colonial legal system and no longer reflect the values of a democratic Uganda.

The directive frames the reforms as a move from “theatrical props of elitism” and excessive formality, arguing that justice should be centred on dignity, accessibility and the relationship between judicial officers and the people they serve.

The executive order, dated 7 July 2026, also launched a 90-day review of advocates wearing wigs, as part of efforts to dismantle colonial-era courtroom traditions.

The Judiciary Disagrees
Uganda’s Judiciary has openly rejected the Law Society’s position, arguing that the legal body has no authority to determine how judges should be addressed in court.

Judiciary spokesperson James Ereemye told the BBC that the Uganda Law Society cannot dictate courtroom protocol to the Judiciary, adding that courts will continue to “demand the known decorum” from lawyers during proceedings.

From the Judiciary’s perspective, traditional forms of address help preserve order, discipline and respect in court rather than elevate judges above other citizens.

The result is that although the Law Society has instructed its members to change their courtroom language, judges may still expect advocates to follow existing courtroom practices, setting up a potential conflict between the country’s lawyers and the bench.

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