In a major move to enhance Uganda’s legal system, President Museveni has made key judicial appointments, signaling a commitment to improving judicial efficiency and addressing case backlogs. This reshuffle, advised by the Judicial Service Commission, includes the appointment of a new Deputy Chief Justice, a Justice of the Supreme Court, eight Justices of the Court of Appeal, and 21 Acting Judges of the High Court.
These appointments aim to strengthen the judiciary’s capacity to manage increasing caseloads and ensure better access to justice across the nation.
- Deputy Chief Justice: Hon. Justice Zeija Flavian has been appointed as the new Deputy Chief Justice, replacing Hon. Richard Buteera, who retired last year upon reaching the mandatory retirement age. Before this appointment, Justice Zeija served as the Principal Judge.
- Supreme Court Appointment: Hon. Justice Muzamiru Kibeedi Mutangula has been appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court, adding to the court’s strength.
- Court of Appeal Boosted: Eight new Justices have been appointed to the Court of Appeal to further fortify the country’s appellate judicial system. The new Justices include:
- Hon. Lady Justice Ketra Kitariisibwa Katunguka
- Hon. Lady Justice Cornelia Sabiiti Kakooza
- Hon. Stella Alibateese
- Hon. Lady Justice Florence Nakacwa
- Hon. Jesse Byaruhanga Rugyema
- Hon. John Musisi Mike
- Hon. Justice Musa Ssekaana
- Hon. Lady Justice Esta Nambayo
- High Court Expansion: In response to an escalating caseload, President Museveni has appointed 21 Acting Judges to the High Court for a two-year term. These appointments are expected to accelerate the handling of cases, promoting justice for all. The new acting judges are:
- HW. Sarah Langa Siu
- HW. Rosemary Bareebe Ngabirano
- HW. Mary Babirye
- Lillian Alum Omara
- Charles Kasibayo
- HW. Mary Kaitesi Kisakye
- Susan Odongo
- Karooli Lwanga Ssemogerere
- Joanita Gertrude Bushara
- Simon Peter Kinobe Mutegeki
- Vincent Opyene
- Sarah Birungi Kalibbala
- Isaac Teko Bony
- Deepa Verma
- Flavia Grace Lamuno
- Fatuma Nanziri Bwanika
- Gelase Kwemara Kafuuzi
- Godfrey Himbaza
- Andrew Khaukha
- Dr. Ginamia Melody Ngwatu
- Ida Nakiganda
Additionally, Hon. Lady Justice Bukirwa Faridah Shamilah has been reappointed for a one-year term as an Acting Judge
Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo welcomed these new appointments, underscoring that they would enhance the judiciary’s capacity and expedite case resolution. He called on the new judges to uphold the highest standards of judicial independence and integrity.
The Judicial Service Commission has also praised these appointments, emphasizing that they are aligned with ongoing reforms aimed at improving judicial efficiency and strengthening service delivery.
This reshuffle comes just days after the Supreme Court ruled that the trial of civilians in military courts is unconstitutional, further reaffirming the government’s commitment to judicial independence.
