Jackson Ntwatwa, a well-known NRM cadre from Nakifuma in Mukono district, was arrested on Tuesday for failing to present his practicing certificate while representing a client in court. The incident unfolded during a hearing at the Nakifuma Grade One Magistrate’s Court, where the magistrate discovered that Ntwatwa, despite posing as a lawyer, lacked the necessary license to practice law.

The situation escalated when Ntwatwa was unable to produce his practicing certificate while representing the family of Juma Nsimbe in a land ownership dispute involving 70-year-old Zaina Nanseleko, a resident of Kyabakadde Kyampisi Subcounty. When asked to provide the required documentation, Ntwatwa could not comply. The magistrate ordered him to leave the courtroom, but Ntwatwa insisted on speaking further, which led to his arrest for contempt of court.

According to legal experts, a practicing certificate is essential for any lawyer wishing to represent clients in legal matters, and it must be renewed annually. Despite his pleas to the police to avoid embarrassment, Ntwatwa was taken into custody.

Ntwatwa has previously been involved in several controversial land cases, including representing people who claims church  land in Mukono Diocese. His arrest raises questions about the integrity of legal practices and the importance of adhering to professional standards in the legal field.