iii. that the 2nd Respondent contended that Uganda is a sovereign State and took action with the Government of the Republic of Uganda since he was informed of the Applicant’s case. AVOCATS SANS FRONTIÈRES’ POSITION The amicus curiae’s position is summarized in its written submissions. In brief, it is explained as follows: i. that it is the obligation of each State to respect and protect the Principles of lawyer’s independence in the East African Community; ii. that the lawyers’ independence is a fundamental standard of human rights; iii. that the lawyers’ independence is most essential in protecting and upholding the rule of law; iv. that the lawyers’ independence is universally accepted standard of human rights recognized in the Treaty. SCHEDULING CONFERENCE Pursuant to Rule 53 of the Rules of this Court, a Scheduling Conference was held on 29th January, 2013 where the Parties pointed out the points of agreement: That the issues raised in this Reference are triable on the basis of Articles 6, 7, 27 and 30 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community. The following were stressed as points of disagreement and therefore issues for determination by this Court: a) whether the East African Court of Justice has jurisdiction to entertain this Reference; b) whether the Reference is time-barred; REFERENCE NO.11 OF 2011 Page 9