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Justices of the Court of Appeal at the special session held in honor of Hon. Justice Richard Buteera

The Court of Appeal/Constitutional Court today held a special sitting to honor the Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Richard Buteera, as he prepares for retirement. This historic session, the first of its kind for the Court, was attended both physically and virtually at the Judiciary Headquarters in Kampala.

Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, the Court's Administrator, presided over the session alongside Justices Fredrick Egonda-Ntende, Cheborion Barishaki, Hellen Obura, Irene Mulyagonja, Christopher Gashirabake, Eva Luswata, Oscar Kihika, Moses Kazibwe, Dr. Asa Mugenyi, Ssekaana Musa, Cornelia Sabiiti, Stella Alibateese, Jesse Rugyema, John Mike Musisi, Ketrah Katunguka, and Esta Nambayo.

They were assisted by HW Rukundo Allen Owembabazi (Registrar Court of Appeal), HW Dr. Mushabe Alex Karocho (Private Legal Secretary to the DCJ), HW Bucyana Lillian (Deputy Registrar), and HW Mugala Jane (Deputy Registrar).

Justice Kiryabwire welcomed the participants, noting that the session was convened to recognize and celebrate the distinguished service of Justice Buteera to the legal profession and the country.

Mr. Kiryowa Kiwanuka(Attorney General) moved a motion seeking the Court's approval for the special sitting, supported by an affidavit from the Solicitor General. The affidavit detailed Justice Buteera’s extensive contributions, including his tenure as a Supreme Court Justice (2017-2020), 18 years as Director of Public Prosecutions, and earlier service as Chief Registrar. It also highlighted his integrity, professionalism, and dedication to justice.

Senior Counsel Prof. Fredrick Ssempebwa, representing the Bar, fully supported the motion.

The Court issued thefollowing orders:

1. The special sitting of the Court to recognize and celebrate Justice Richard Buteera's service as Deputy Chief Justice and judicial officer in the Court’s Judicature upon his imminent retirement is allowed.
2. Members of the Bar and Bench are allowed to express their individual and collective gratitude for his service on the bench.
3. The speeches and expressions of gratitude from the bench and the bar shall be part of the permanent record of the Court.

In his remarks, Justice Buteera appreciated the Justices for approving the Special Sitting and acknowledged the honor of being the first beneficiary of this new tradition of honouring retiring Justices of the Court of Appeal/Constitutional Court. He announced that similar sessions would be held for future retiring Justices of the Court.

Reflecting on his career, he highlighted key achievements as DCJ, including teamwork among Justices, weekly meetings for efficient case handling, and quarterly team-building events. He credited engagements with the Bar and regional sittings of the Court for bringing justice closer to the people. He also noted the strong working relationships with stakeholders through the Court Users Committee, chaired by Justice Kiryabwire, where stakeholders discuss challenges and adopt collective solutions, which has improved Court performance.

Justice Buteera noted significant progress in clearing the case backlog, particularly Constitutional Petitions and Election Petition Appeals. He noted that, since 2021, the Court has significantly reduced its backlog in Constitutional Petitions, with plans to eliminate it entirely this quarter. He reported that all 84 Election Petition Appeals from the 2021 election cycle were resolved within six months.

He also reported the success of Appellate Mediation at the Court, noting that 166 cases were mediated in 2024, 100 of which were successful. The DCJ credited expedited judgment delivery and the Electronic Court Case Management Information System(ECCMIS) for improving efficiency. Other achievements he mentioned were the induction of the Justices and the Court’s Annual Work Plan among others.

Justice Buteera concluded by thanking those involved in organizing the special sitting and acknowledged the Judiciary's support throughout his career. He expressed deep appreciation for the recognition accorded to him.

Speaking on behalf of the male Justices of Court of Appeal, Justice Egonda-Ntende paid tribute to Justice Buteera, reflecting on their decades-long acquaintance since their days at Makerere University in 1975. He recounted Justice Buteera’s journey from completing his law degree in Tanzania due to political instability to his return to Uganda, where he rose through the ranks of the Judiciary. He noted that Justice Buteera's tenure as the country's longest-serving Director of Public Prosecutions (1995-2013) was particularly notable.

He noted that, upon returning to the Judiciary in 2013 as a Justice of Appeal, Justice Buteera later served on the Supreme Court before his appointment as DCJ in 2020. 

At a personal level, "Richard has been there for all our brothers and sisters at this Court and the Judiciary, and for my family, whether in times of sorrow or celebration. A true brother he is," he said.

Justice Egonda thanked the DCJ for his relentless efforts to ensure that, despite limited numbers and a growing workload, the Court did all it could to meet its obligations to the country. He also noted that the DCJ has been a leading advocate for the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Uganda, actively campaigning for its adoption as a mainstream method of dispute resolution. "We can say with confidence that ADR has taken root at the Court of Appeal thanks to his efforts," he added.

"He has given his all in the service of our country. Richard, on behalf of my brothers and sisters and staff at the Court of Appeal, we wish you an edifying and satisfying retirement that allows you to pursue some of your other interests, which may have been inhibited by the demands of service to the country," he concluded.

Lady Justice Obura, speaking on behalf of the female Justices, lauded Justice Buteera's humility, kindness, and leadership. She recalled how he welcomed and encouraged her as anew justice of the Court, fostering a collaborative environment. She hailed his efficiency in managing court meetings.

Describing him as a mentor and father figure, whose influence would be deeply missed. She concluded by wishing him a joyful and peaceful retirement, acknowledging his lasting impact on Uganda’s justice system.

Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, the Director of Public Prosecutions, described Justice Buteera as a man of integrity, innovation, and unwavering commitment to justice. His departure, she noted, leaves a void, as the Judiciary will no longer benefit from his wisdom, humility, and passion for the law.

She highlighted that Justice Buteera's career had been marked by transformative leadership and significant contributions to Uganda’s justice system. During his time as DPP, she pointed out, DCJ championed reforms that professionalized the state bar by ensuring only skilled lawyers handled prosecutions. He was also instrumental in establishing the DPP as an independent institution, separating it from the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

Lady Justice Abodo further noted that Justice Buteera led the decentralization of the office, creating field stations and specialized departments, such as those focused on land rights, anti-corruption, and legal research. These efforts, she added, expanded access to justice and strengthened institutional capacity. 

She noted that he also introduced modern case management practices, which reduced backlog and enhanced efficiency. His influence extended beyond Uganda, contributing to international prosecutorial cooperation and playing a key role in the formation of the International Association of Prosecutors (IAP), where he helped shape its constitution.

Beyond his professional achievements, she emphasized that Justice Buteera served as a mentor, inspiring many young prosecutors with the values of fairness and integrity. 

Lady Justice Abodo recalled a personal encounter that reflected his welcoming nature and his willingness to guide colleagues. She noted that his impact on the leadership of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions remains evident, as many ,including herself, benefited from his mentorship.

Even as DCJ, she noted that Justice Buteera continued contributing to legal reforms and promoting prosecutorial ethics. She added that as patron of the Uganda Association of Prosecutors, he supported training and mentorship, leaving a lasting mark on the legal profession.

Lady Justice Abodo emphasized that Justice Buteera's legacy lies not only in the reforms and cases he handled but also in the values he passed on to those who worked with him. She noted that his commitment to fairness and accessibility in the justice system will be remembered. 

On behalf of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the legal fraternity, she expressed gratitude for his exemplary service and wished him health, happiness, and fulfillment in retirement.

Ms. Ruth Ssebatindira, Senior Counsel, shared her reflections on working with four Deputy Chief Justices. She recalled her first professional engagement with the DCJ in 2016,when the then Chief Justice, Bart Katureebe, appointed both of them to the Bench Book Committee, chaired by the late Justice John Wilson Nattubu Tsekooko.

The committee of eight reviewed both the Criminal and Civil Justice Bench Books. She admitted feeling intimidated by the presence of Justice Tsekooko and the DCJ, especially in discussions on criminal law.

When she voiced her concerns, she noted that the DCJ responded in his usual calm and encouraging manner, assuring her that she would soon grasp the details. He reminded her that her appointment had been deliberate, as the Chief Justice had confidence in her contributions. She noted that his reassurance gave her the confidence to later contribute actively, especially during discussions on civil justice.

She highlighted Justice Buteera's sense of humour, resilience, steadfast determination, humility, and openness to learning, which stood out even with his vast experience.

She noted that their paths continued to cross professionally over the years, allowing her to appreciate his firm yet approachable leadership style. She praised his discipline, fairness, and commitment, qualities that have left a lasting impression on many who have worked with him. She commended his steady voice, strength, and leadership, which continue to inspire.

Senior Counsel Peter Kabatsi also delivered a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on Justice Buteera's remarkable career and dedication to justice. He expressed his joy in honoring a friend and distinguished judicial officer whose record speaks for itself.

He recalled their first encounter in 1986 at a seminar on the role of law and the administration of justice in Kampala. At the time, Justice Buteera was a young magistrate, but his clarity of thought and commitment were already evident.

Justice Buteera rose steadily through the judicial ranks, becoming Chief Magistrate and later taking on administrative and judicial leadership roles. Mr. Kabatsi highlighted their interactions, particularly during his own time as Secretary-General, when Justice Buteera's diligence and commitment helped shape critical reforms.

His appointment as DPP came as no surprise to Mr. Kabatsi, who believed he was the right person for the role. He noted that Justice Buteera served with distinction, and his later elevation to the Supreme Court and appointment as DCJ in 2020 further demonstrated his capability and leadership.

Reflecting on his courtroom experiences, Mr. Kabatsi described Justice Buteera as an organized and detail-oriented judge who upheld high standards. He was also known for his patience and willingness to listen, allowing advocates to present their cases fully before making well-reasoned judgments.

Outside the court room, Mr. Kabatsi commended Justice Buteera's humility and warmth-traits that endeared him to many. He said the precedents set during his service will continue to shape Uganda's legal system for years to come.

As the nation reflects on Justice Buteera’s legacy, Mr. Kabatsi encouraged legal professionals to follow his example and remain committed to ensuring that justice is not only done, but also seen to be done.

In his remarks, Mr. Kiwanuka highlighted Justice Buteera's 40-year career in the Judiciary, commending his integrity, excellence, dutifulness, and contributions to the rule of law. "If ever there was an embodiment of the phrase 'as sober as a judge,' it would be Justice Buteera," he remarked.

He emphasized that Justice Buteera's career journey saw him rise through the ranks. As Chairperson of the Judiciary’s Case Backlog Committee, he played a key role in reducing case delays. His leadership at the Court of Appeal strengthened judicial efficiency and access to justice.

Beyond the Bench, Mr. Kiwanuka pointed out that Justice Buteera mentored many in the legal fraternity, particularly in criminal law and prosecution. His guidance and commitment to nurturing future legal minds earned him widespread respect among peers and young practitioners alike.

The Attorney General acknowledged that, as Justice Buteera retires, his legacy remains firmly rooted in Uganda's legal landscape. He noted that the principles he upheld, the decisions he made, and the reforms he championed will continue to shape the Judiciary. He thanked him for his exceptional service, unwavering commitment to justice, and enduring impact on the nation.

The session was attended by judicial officers in various capacities as well as representatives from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, Attorney General's Chambers, senior counsel, and advocates among other stakeholders.

Also present were Judiciary's senior administrators, support staff, as well as Justice Buteera's family and friends.