President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has presided over the swearing-in of nine newly appointed judges at State House, Entebbe, emphasizing the need for a justice system that reflects Uganda’s cultural and historical values.
Among those sworn in was Justice Muzamiru Mutangula Kibeedi as Justice of the Supreme Court. The new Justices of the Court of Appeal included;
- Justice Ssekaana Musa,
- Lady Justice Sabiiti Cornelia Kakooza,
- Lady Justice Stella Alibateese,
- Lady Justice Florence Nakachwa,
- Justice Byaruhanga Jesse Rugyema,
- Justice John Mike Musisi,
- Lady Justice Ketrah Kitariisibwa Katunguka,
- Lady Justice Nambayo Esta.
President Museveni underscored the role of freedom fighters in shaping Uganda’s legal framework and cautioned against adopting foreign judicial models without considering local realities.
“In the 1960s, we, the freedom fighters, argued that justice should be tailored to our own society, not imposed upon us by European standards. That is how we have been able to understand truth and justice,” he said.
He criticized the practice of granting bail to capital offenders, describing it as a mistake that must be addressed.
“The Banyankore have a saying: ‘Aleileyo yagalika,’ meaning, he stole and returned from prison unbothered. People are fed up with this. It is provocative and must stop,” he stressed.
The President defended the role of military courts in handling cases involving armed criminals, stating that civilian courts would undermine military discipline. He pointed to cattle rustlers and Karachunas who were tried in military courts, saying the process helped remove them from circulation and allowed them a chance to reform.
“They claim it is ‘irregular’ for armed civilians to be tried in military courts, yet they believe a man can marry another man. What kind of reasoning is that?” he questioned.
Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo welcomed the appointments, calling them a historic milestone in strengthening Uganda’s judiciary.
“This is a record; never before have we had such a large number of appointments at once. It reflects the commitment to transforming the judiciary so it can better serve the people,” he said.
He noted that the increase in justices at the Court of Appeal, now totaling 21, would enhance efficiency in delivering justice. Plans are also underway to establish regional Courts of Appeal in Gulu and Mbarara.
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, praised the appointments, saying they would improve access to justice and enhance economic growth by resolving commercial disputes.
“The Constitution has given us the foundation, but it is Your Excellency’s leadership that ensures the judiciary can function effectively by increasing the number of judicial officers,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, judicial leaders, and family members of the newly appointed judges.