We believe we can effectively complete great tasks together #BuildingBridges with @JCSUganda

Ahead of the 53rd LDC Graduation Ceremony Part II, @PoliceUg finalized a thorough security inspection at the venue to ensure tight security, seamless traffic flow, and strict observation of security SOPs. #Tusimbudde

The Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, and the Chief Justice of the Republic of Zambia, Justice Dr. Mumba Malila, yesterday paid a joint courtesy visit to Makerere University School of Law, where they engaged faculty members, students, and university leaders on the future of legal education, judicial reform, and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Africa. The visit formed part of Justice Malila’s official engagements in Uganda following his assumption of leadership of the Africa Chief Justices’ Alternative Dispute Resolution Forum (ACJADRF) and underscored the growing importance of collaboration between judiciaries and institutions of higher learning in advancing justice on the continent. The two Chief Justices were received by the Dean of Makerere University School of Law, Prof Ronald Naluwairo, alongside faculty members and students. Speaking during the engagement, Chief Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija described the visit as a homecoming, reflecting on his journey as both a student and lecturer at Makerere University School of Law. He paid tribute to the institution for shaping generations of legal professionals and commended its decision to introduce Alternative Dispute Resolution as a standalone course. “When we were in law school and later at the Law Development Centre, no one ever told us that disputes could be resolved through ADR. We were trained primarily for litigation. The introduction of ADR as a standalone course is a very important development,” Justice Zeija said. The Chief Justice emphasized the vital role that legal scholars play in enriching judicial decision-making through research and scholarship. He cited the contribution of academics who have participated as amici curiae in landmark constitutional and electoral cases, helping to strengthen Uganda’s jurisprudence. To deepen collaboration between the Judiciary and Makerere University, Justice Zeija revealed plans to formalize cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding between the Judiciary, through the Judicial Training Institute (JTI), and the School of Law. The partnership is expected to focus on judicial training, legal research, and knowledge exchange. Justice Mumba Malila, who previously served as a law lecturer at the University of Zambia, highlighted the relationship between academia and public service. “I spent many years teaching law at the University of Zambia, and there is a unique sense of fulfillment in meeting former students who have gone on to become leaders and professionals,” he said. Justice Malila commended Makerere University’s long-standing reputation as one of Africa’s leading institutions of higher learning, recalling how it earned recognition across the continent as the “Oxford of Africa.” He welcomed the School of Law’s efforts to mainstream ADR education and described legal training institutions as critical partners in advancing access to justice. “One of the objectives of the Africa Chief Justices’ ADR Forum is to encourage universities and training institutions to mainstream ADR. We want to reach a point where students can specialize in ADR and graduate as professional ADR practitioners,” Justice Malila said. He noted that while traditional legal education has largely focused on adversarial litigation, the future of justice requires greater emphasis on mediation, negotiation, arbitration, and other collaborative methods of dispute resolution. Welcoming the distinguished guests, Prof Ronald Naluwairo congratulated Justice Malila on assuming leadership of the Africa Chief Justices’ ADR Forum and reaffirmed the School of Law’s commitment to supporting ADR initiatives across Africa. Prof Naluwairo noted that many of Uganda’s leading legal figures, including the Chief Justice, Deputy Chief Justice, Attorney General, and Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, are alumni of the institution

A total of 115 lawyers were formally enrolled as Advocates of the High Court yesterday during a ceremony marked by reflections on professional responsibility, ethical conduct, and the critical role advocates play in the administration of justice. The enrolment ceremony, held at the High Court in Kampala, was presided over by HW Beatrice Stella Atingu, Registrar Special Duties, who represented the Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum. The event was attended by representatives of the Judiciary, the Uganda Law Society, the Law Council, family members, and friends of the newly enrolled advocates. Delivering remarks on behalf of the Chief Registrar, HW Atingu described the occasion as a significant milestone in the lives of the new advocates and a testament of their hard work, perseverance, and God’s grace. She congratulated the advocates upon joining the learned profession and reminded them that while the legal profession commands prestige, influence, and respect, it also demands discipline, sacrifice, integrity, and unwavering commitment to justice. “The legal profession is not merely a source of livelihood. It is a calling that requires service to clients, the courts, and society at large,” she said. Citing Article 126(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, HW Atingu emphasized that advocates have a duty to assist courts in administering justice fairly, efficiently, and without undue regard to technicalities. She urged the newly enrolled advocates to cultivate a culture of continuous learning and thorough preparation, noting that only diligent and well-read practitioners would thrive in the profession. The Registrar further cautioned the advocates against placing client interests above the broader interests of justice. “Never allow a client’s interests to override the cause of justice. Where a conflict arises, let integrity prevail, even if it means declining a brief,” she advised. Drawing a vivid analogy, HW Atingu described an advocate as a “high priest in the temple of justice,” whose conduct must at all times be guided by truth, fairness, courage, and professional ethics. She also encouraged the advocates to contribute to societal transformation through pro bono legal services, community engagement, and efforts aimed at expanding access to justice, particularly for vulnerable members of society. “Good legal practice is not about the end justifying the means, but about ensuring ethical standards guide every process,” she said. Representing the Secretary of the Law Council, Ms. Patience Biira Mutooro congratulated the advocates on their admission to the Bar and reminded them that while the Law Council is responsible for admitting legal practitioners, it is equally mandated to safeguard discipline and professional standards within the profession. She warned against greed and unethical conduct, urging the new advocates to embrace honesty and restraint in their practice. “Take only what is yours, and not more,” she advised, emphasizing that integrity remains the most valuable asset a lawyer can possess. Ms. Mutooro further encouraged the advocates to maintain professionalism in their appearance, communication, and interactions with clients, colleagues, judicial officers, and the public. She also urged them to remain humble and open to correction throughout their professional journey. The Vice President of the Uganda Law Society, Mr. Anthony Asiimwe, challenged the advocates to view themselves as trustees of justice and active participants in shaping the future of the legal profession. He encouraged them to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), adapt to digital transformation within the justice sector, and align themselves with ongoing reforms being implemented by the Judiciary

Justice Kwemara Kafuuzi Gelase has called for increased public sensitization on court processes and services, saying greater awareness is essential for enhancing access to justice and strengthening public confidence in the Judiciary. The Judge made the remarks yesterday during a branding and sensitization exercise conducted by the Judiciary’s Communications and Public Relations team at Mbarara High Court and Mbarara Chief Magistrate’s Court. The exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to promote public awareness of court processes, judicial reforms, innovations including the Judiciary Client Service Charter and Service Delivery Standards. The Communications and Public Relations team was received by His Worship Joshua Mukuru and proceeded to brand key areas within the court premises before conducting sensitization sessions for court users, judicial officers, court staff, advocates and members of the public. Speaking during the engagement, Justice Kafuuzi commended the initiative and observed that court users require more opportunities to interact with the Judiciary and understand the services available to them. “This is a very important initiative because it equips court users with information that enables them to effectively access and utilize court services. We need more engagements of this nature,” he said. The Judge urged the Judiciary to continue popularizing the Judiciary Client Service Charter through radio and television programmes in order to reach wider audiences. Justice Kafuuzi noted that the information shared during the sensitization sessions is beneficial not only to litigants but also to advocates, whom he encouraged to play a more active role in educating their clients about court processes. “Lawyers have a responsibility to simplify legal processes for their clients and help them understand their rights and obligations within the justice system,” he noted. The Judge also highlighted Mbarara High Court’s open-door policy, emphasizing that court users have the right to approach judicial officers whenever they require guidance or clarification on court procedures. He further underscored the importance of the Judiciary’s toll-free line in combating corruption and encouraged members of the public to report any incidents of bribery or misconduct involving court officials. “Do not give money to judicial officers or court staff. If anyone solicits a bribe, use the available reporting channels and report the matter immediately,” he cautioned. Court users who attended the engagement welcomed the sensitization exercise and appreciated the information shared on court processes and service standards. However, some participants noted that challenges still exist in accessing assistance within the justice system and called for continued public education and engagement. *At Masaka High Court, CM Court* The team later proceeded to Masaka High Court and Masaka Chief Magistrate’s Court, where they were received by the Chief Magistrate, HW Abert Asiimwe. Addressing court users and staff, HW Asiimwe observed that misconceptions about corruption continue to affect public perception of the Judiciary and emphasized the need to strengthen public confidence in the justice system. “Many people still believe that cases can be influenced through bribery. We must continue assuring the public that justice is not for sale and encourage confidence in the integrity of our courts,” he said. He commended judicial officers and support staff for maintaining high standards of integrity and urged them to remain steadfast in resisting any attempts by litigants to influence court processes through corruption. The Chief Magistrate further warned that individuals who attempt to bribe judicial officers risk arrest and prosecution, stressing that court decisions are based on the law and evidence rather than financial inducements

Masindi High Court on Thursday held its first Regional Coordinating Committee (RCC) meeting of the year, bringing together justice sector stakeholders from across the Circuit. The meeting recorded 100 percent attendance, reflecting the strong commitment of member institutions to strengthening coordination in the administration of justice. The meeting was chaired by the Resident Judge of Masindi High Court, Lady Justice Mary Babirye, who congratulated the political leaders and representatives who were recently elected in the concluded elections and urged them to continue supporting efforts aimed at enhancing access to justice within their respective communities. During the meeting, all participating institutions presented their respective briefs, highlighting achievements, challenges, and ongoing interventions. Members engaged in discussions on the key challenges affecting justice delivery and proposed practical recommendations to address them. Among the notable developments reported was the allocation of land to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) by Kiryandongo District Local Government. The development is expected to help address office accommodation challenges currently faced by the ODPP in the district. Members noted that once the proposed Kiryandongo Chief Magistrate’s Court is constructed, the office space currently occupied by the ODPP will be freed up, creating room for the posting of an additional Magistrate to strengthen service delivery. Masindi High Court, was commended for conducting several criminal sessions, which have significantly contributed to reducing case backlog, increasing case disposal rates, and decongesting prisons through the timely conclusion of criminal matters. Stakeholders also emphasized the need for all justice sector institutions to actively promote Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms, particularly plea bargaining and mediation, as effective tools for enhancing access to justice and reducing case backlog. The meeting further called upon the Uganda Police Force to embrace and strengthen the use of technology in its operations to enhance interoperability with the Judiciary’s Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions’ Prosecutor Case Management Information System (PROCAMIS). Members observed that greater technological integration among justice institutions would improve efficiency, coordination, and case tracking. At the conclusion of the meeting, members agreed that the next RCC meeting will be hosted at Isimba Prison Farm on 24 September 2026

The Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum, has commended Magistrates-in-Charge of Station for their remarkable contribution to reducing case backlog and strengthening service delivery, while urging them to uphold professionalism, integrity, and accountability in the administration of justice. HW Alum made the remarks during her maiden meeting with the Magistrates at the Supreme Court Conference Hall in Kampala. The meeting brought together judicial officers from across the country and members of Senior Management to review court performance, discuss emerging challenges, and chart a way forward for improved service delivery. In attendance were HW Thadius Ayebare Tumwebaze, Registrar Supreme Court; HW Lillian Bucyana, Ag. Registrar of the Judicial Training Institute; HW Patricia Amoko, Private Legal Secretary to the Chief Registrar; Mr David Sunday Kikabi, Principal Information Technology Officer; Eng Priscilla Nakiboneka, Principal Executive Engineer and Ag. Head of Engineering and Technical Services Department; and Ms Dorcus Nakunda, Senior Assistant Secretary representing the Directorate of Finance and Administration. Welcoming the magistrates, HW Alum thanked God for the opportunity to serve as Chief Registrar and expressed appreciation to the judicial officers for honouring the invitation despite the meeting having been rescheduled. Describing the magistrates as her “foot soldiers,” she commended them for the significant progress registered in reducing case backlog at Magistrates’ Courts. “Thank you for the hard work and achievements you continue to register for the Judiciary. The significant progress made in backlog clearance deserves celebration. The reports indicate that backlog in your courts is now minimal, and for that, I commend you,” she said. The Chief Registrar noted that recent reports from the Registry of Magistrates Affairs and Data Management indicate that case backlog at Magistrates’ Courts has reduced substantially and is now almost non-existent compared to other court levels. She also applauded magistrates for effectively managing their courts and ensuring continuity of judicial services across the country. Updating the magistrates on developments since their last meeting held in September 2025, HW Alum highlighted key leadership changes within the Judiciary, including the appointment of Hon. Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija as Chief Justice and Hon. Justice Moses Kawumi Kazibwe as Deputy Chief Justice. She also informed the meeting that HW Pamela Lamunu Ocaya had assumed office as Registrar of Magistrates Affairs and Data Management. The Chief Registrar thanked HW Lamunu for successfully steering the Office of the Chief Registrar in an acting capacity for fourteen months. She further urged magistrates to familiarize themselves with recently gazetted laws and regulations that will directly impact judicial work. These include the Administration of the Judiciary Judicial Training Institute Regulations, 2025; the Constitution (Operation of Mobile Courts) Practice Directions, 2026; the Judicature (Court Annexed Mediation) Rules, 2026; and the Magistrates Courts (Amendment) Act, 2026. Particular emphasis was placed on the Magistrates Courts (Amendment) Act, which substantially increases the pecuniary jurisdiction of Magistrates’ Courts. The Chief Registrar revealed that a taskforce is finalising practice directions to facilitate the transfer of appropriate cases from the High Court to Magistrates’ Courts under the new legal framework. “These cases will be substantially larger than what many of you have previously handled. I therefore urge you to exercise diligence and prepare yourselves through continuous learning and capacity building,” she advised. She also directed magistrates to ensure that all claims filed in court clearly indicate monetary value to avoid jurisdictional challenges, especially in land-related disputes

Today at State House Entebbe, I presided over the swearing-in of Hon. Justice Moses Kawumi Kazibwe as Deputy Chief Justice. I congratulate Justice Kawumi and commend the Judiciary, under the leadership of Chief Justice Flavian Zeija, for the progress being made in fighting corruption, promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution, and embracing digitisation. These reforms are important in ensuring that justice is delivered efficiently, fairly, and without unnecessary delays. When we came into government, corruption and excessive emphasis on technicalities were major weaknesses in the judicial system. I am therefore pleased to see continued efforts to strengthen substance, integrity, and accountability in the administration of justice. I wish Justice Kawumi success as he undertakes this important responsibility.

Pictorial of the Swearing-in of the Deputy Chief Justice, Hon. Justice Moses Kawumi Kazibwe at State House Entebbe

Intimacy requires trust, respect, and safety. A single choice can change the entire dynamic of a moment. Protecting yourself and your partner from HIV is always the right move. Use a condom correctly and consistently. EndAIDS2030Ug. Every second counts, let’s act now.

RT @kasujja: Excellent news!

Tomorrow 👇

Be kind. Be nice. When you introspect and are honest to yourself, you will realise you have no right to be bad mannered. Tetuli bakitalo nyo.

Under the new Magistrates Courts (Amendment) Act, 2026, the power to create magisterial areas and determine the number of magistrates now rests with the Chief Justice, not the Minister of Justice. #OpenGovUg @joshuabyamazima @RKirunda

Happy Heroes’ Day

Happening Now: The Judicial Training Institute (JTI) has commenced a two-day training for Justices of the Court of Appeal on the Management of Election Petition Appeals. The training, taking place at the Court of Appeal Conference Hall in Kampala, is aimed at strengthening the Court’s preparedness to effectively handle election petition appeals. Participating in the training are Justices of the Court of Appeal, Registrars attached to the Court of Appeal and Magistrates (Research) attached to the Justices of the Court. Participants are being taken through the electoral cycle and the use of technology in election petitions by Dr. Jennifer Angeyo (Head of Legal, Electoral Commission) and Mr. Ahmed Abdallah Ochama (Head of Department, Voter Data Management). Later, they will be taken through an overview of the jurisprudence on election petition appeals by Lady Justice Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza (Justice of the Supreme Court) and Dr. Benson Tusasirwe of the School of Law, Makerere University. The training will also cover Procedural Concerns in Election Petition Appeals by Counsel Ebert Byenkya (Advocate). There will be a panel discussion on Mirroring the Court of Appeal: Perspectives of the Attorney General, the Bar, and Academia in Shaping Electoral Justice. Panelists will include the Attorney General, Mr. John Mary Mugisha (Senior Counsel), Mr. Eric Sabiiti (Electoral Commission), Dr. Benson Tusasirwe (School of Law, Makerere University), and Mr. George Umunyokol (Advocate, Chairperson of the CLE Committee, Law Council, and JTI Council Member). The training is being moderated by HW Lillian Bucyana, Acting Registrar JTI

RT @JudiciaryUG: The Chief Justice Hon. Justice Dr Flavian Zeija will on the 1st of June 2026 preside over Kiboga High Court Open Day https…

We are so glad for such a rare opportunity to granted to us by UCLF through Counsel Assimwe Ronald Williams to conduct a courtesy visit to Hon.Justice Mubiru,we were mentored beyond reasonable doubt both academically and in life may the good lord bless you 👏👏

Earlier today the Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, presided over the official handover ceremony of Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya (Outgoing President of Uganda Judicial Officers Association) to HW Ayebare Daphne (Incoming President of the Association) at the Supreme Court building in Kampala. The ceremony was witnessed by Judicial Officers in various capacities including members of the Executive of UJOA and representatives to the Association from various levels of the Judiciary (both outgoing and incoming). Notably in attendance was Justice Vincent Mugabo (Chairperson UJOA Electoral Commission), HW Mallen Obizu (General Secretary), HW Okello Welbourne (Deputy General Secretary), HW Karim Kyembe (Vice Treasurer), HW Abubaker Matanda (Vice Publicity Secretary), and HW Edith Tusabe (representing persons with disabilities) Also present was Lady Justice Elizabeth Musoke (Judicial Service Commission Ex-officio representative), Lady Justice Celia Nagawa (Representative for the High Court), Lady Justice Sarah Langa Siu (Head, Wakiso High Court Circuit), HW Sarah Bashaija Barungi (Representative for Registrars), HW Dr. Mushabe Alex Karocho (Private Legal Secretary to the Chief Justice), HW Moses Nabende Mushebebe (Representative for Chief Magistrates), HW Mwesigye Julius (Personal Assistant to the Chief Justice), HW Boniface Okello, HW Joy Kebirungi Natukunda, HW Vincent Muzeyi and HW Rebecca Apica (Representatives for Magistrates), and HW Steven Waidhuba (Magistrates Grade Two representative), among others. The event was moderated by HW Timothy Lumunye (Chief Magistrate, Law Development Centre Court)

The Students Department conducted a courtesy visit to Hon. Justice Steven MUBIRU at his chambers at the Mukono High Court Circuit. The visit aimed at giving students of @uculaw @UCUniversity an opportunity to interact with and learn from one of the distinguished judicial officers in Uganda. During the meeting, Hon. Justice MUBIRU shared his inspiring journey in the field of justice and law. He emphasized the importance of hard work, discipline, integrity, and consistency in both academic and professional life. He encouraged students to always do their best in everything they pursue and cautioned them against taking shortcuts in life, noting that true success comes through patience, dedication and honesty. #UCLFMentorship