GASABO - Fifty new lawyers took oath before a panel of three High Court judges, yesterday at the Supreme Court in Kimihurura, bringing the total number of practicing lawyers in the country to 366.

In a ceremony that was presided over by the High Court’s President, Johnston Busingye, the new members to the Bar Association pledged to uphold the values of their profession.

While addressing the lawyers, Busingye urged them to ensure that the nation is guided by the law through respecting the constitution, adding that a lot is expected from them, calling upon them to value time.

"The oath you have taken has made you legal professionals of this country and this implies that you are more conversant with the law and its values than anyone else. You now know the implication of a dispute and how to ensure that everyone enjoys their rights so do what is expected of you.”

"Work with integrity and impartiality, desist from corruption, respect time so that you avoid piling up cases and ensure that these principles are part of the judicial system,” he said.

Busingye pointed out that the country has so many court cases and there is an urgent need for more professionals. He also noted that it is easier for a bigger number to develop themselves professionally because some can go for training or research to boost capacity.

In relation to increasing numbers, the president of the Bar Association, Vincent Karangwa, revealed that 80 more lawyers would take oath next month.

Janvier Ndagijimana, one of the new legal practitioners could not contain his joy for achieving his dream.

"I cannot believe that this day has finally come. My goal is to do whatever it takes to practice as I have vowed, this way I will ensure that justice prevails,” he said as he flashed a wide smile.

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