The enigmatic figure of Uganda Law Society president Isaac Ssemakade if often misunderstood for his unorthodox deployment of the English language.
His detractors would have you believe that his use of certain words, deemed "vulgar" by some, is evidence of a lack of refinement. But, dear reader, do not be swayed by such superficial assessments. Ssemakade's use of language, far from being a manifestation of crudeness, is, in fact, a testament to his mastery of the English language.
He wields words with the precision of a surgeon, cutting through the fat of euphemism and obfuscation to reveal the raw, unvarnished truth. Ssemakade's use of language is not merely a matter of personal style or preference; it is a deliberate, calculated attempt to challenge the dominant power structures, to subvert the established order.
He is a linguistic provocateur, a gadfly who buzzes about the ears of the powerful, disturbing their complacency, and challenging their assumptions. For instance, the word "stupid" can denote a lack of intelligence or cognitive ability, but it can also connote a sense of contempt, disdain, or frustration.
Similarly, the word "silly" can denote a lack of seriousness or gravity, but it can also connote a sense of playfulness, creativity, or humor. Denotative meanings refer to the literal or dictionary definitions of words, while connotative meanings encompass the emotions, associations, and cultural baggage that words carry.
In the case of words like "pussy," "vagina," "goody goodie," and "bunnie boy," their denotative meanings are straightforward and innocuous. However, their connotative meanings can be highly charged and context-dependent. In certain contexts, these words can be used in a neutral or even positive manner, while in others, they can be perceived as derogatory or offensive.
So, I find the statement of disapproval issued by the past presidents of the Uganda Law Society against Ssemakadde's conduct is a paradigmatic example of the tyranny of political correctness and the stifling of free speech.
The notion that Ssemakadde's language is "vulgar, vile, and abusive" is a subjective interpretation that betrays a deep-seated bias against unconventional forms of expression. As the philosopher Jacques Derrida once said, "There is no outside-text." Language is always already embedded in a web of power relations and social norms, and what is considered "acceptable" or "unacceptable" is always a matter of interpretation.
The statement of disapproval is a misguided attempt to stifle free speech and maintain the dominant power structures within the legal profession. Ssemakadde's use of provocative language is a testament to his willingness to challenge the status quo and confront the powers that be.
Later, the attempted expulsion of Ssemakadde from the Council was a draconian measure that undermines the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability that the ULS purports to hold sacred. It is good the attempted coup was thwarted. As the venerable philosopher, Aristotle, once observed, "It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it."
The President's leadership style may be unorthodox, but it is evident that he is driven by a profound sense of purpose and a deep-seated commitment to the values of the Uganda Law Society. As the distinguished management theorist, Mary Parker Follett, once observed, "leadership is not about being in charge, it's about taking care of those in your charge."
The President's decision to suspend the CEO may have been unpopular, but it was made in accordance with the Uganda Law Society's constitution and procedures, and was motivated by a genuine concern for the well-being of the organization and its members.
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Lastly, the assertion that Ssemakadde's utterances against Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo have caused damage to the Uganda Law Society is a gross exaggeration that ignores the right to free speech and his duty to advocate for the rights of the legal profession and the rule of law.
As the illustrious philosopher, John Locke, once noted, "The liberty of the press is the palladium of all the civil, political, and religious rights of an Englishman."
Ssemakadde's comments may have been unpopular, but they were made in the context of advocating for the rights of the legal profession and the rule of law, and are protected by the principles of free speech and intellectual freedom.
