Gomba, Uganda: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised what he described as growing judicial convergence in Uganda, saying improved cooperation between the Judiciary and the Executive has strengthened national stability and service delivery.
The President made the remarks over the weekend while presiding over the swearing-in of Flavian Zeija as Chief Justice at his country home in Kisozi, Gomba District. He was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataaha Museveni.
Museveni said that since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) assumed power, its leadership has prioritised patriotism and national transformation, creating conditions for harmonious coexistence between the Judiciary and the Executive.
He commended the outgoing Chief Justice, Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, for efforts to rationalise court operations and improve efficiency across the justice system.
The President particularly welcomed the Judiciary’s emphasis on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), saying it presents an opportunity to integrate cultural justice systems with formal courts, ease case backlog, and promote reconciliation.
Museveni also applauded Dr. Zeija for declaring zero tolerance to corruption, describing graft as a major threat to public confidence in the justice system.
He said listening to public opinion and harnessing what he termed the “intelligence of the people” was critical, noting that during his recent countrywide engagements, he focused on hearing citizens’ views rather than campaigning.
The President further expressed support for a proposed dedicated unit to handle government infrastructure-related cases, saying it would safeguard public investments and accelerate project implementation.
Zeija Pledges Reforms, Zero Tolerance to Corruption
In his acceptance remarks, Chief Justice Zeija described leadership in public service as demanding, crediting his rise to God’s grace. He thanked President Museveni for the continued trust, noting that his elevation marks his fourth presidential appointment within the Judiciary.
Dr. Zeija outlined an ambitious reform agenda aimed at improving efficiency, accountability, and access to justice. He pledged to operationalise magistrates’ courts, take firm action against absenteeism and underperformance, and conduct independent assessments of court performance.
He committed to reducing case delays by enforcing strict timelines, expanding the use of information and communication technology, and fully automating court systems to enhance monitoring and evaluation.
Zeija said automation would also improve tracking of attendance and performance of judicial officers.
He further pledged to strengthen ADR mechanisms, prioritise the welfare of judicial officers, and train judges in artificial intelligence to keep pace with global developments. He also promised to transform the Industrial Court, introduce paperless courts supported by functional laptops and reliable internet, and enforce zero tolerance to corruption throughout his tenure.
Tributes to Outgoing Chief Justice
Deputy Attorney General Jackson Kafuuzi, representing the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, thanked President Museveni for what he described as exceptional leadership that has ensured stability and smooth institutional transitions, including the orderly change of leadership within the Judiciary.
In his farewell remarks, Justice Owiny-Dollo congratulated President Museveni on his electoral victory, saying the outcome reflected strong public support.
He praised Dr. Zeija as energetic and hands-on, recalling that as Principal Judge, he traversed courts across the country and remained fully informed about judicial operations.
Owiny-Dollo said the new Chief Justice would firmly defend judicial independence and the rule of law. He also thanked the President for the opportunity to serve, noting that he was the first Deputy Chief Justice to rise to the position of Chief Justice.
He attributed improvements during his tenure partly to increased Judiciary funding and appealed for further budget enhancement to ensure each district has a Chief Magistrate.
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