JUDICIARY Latest Features

(L-R): Hon. Justice Richard Buteera(Deputy Chief Justice), Hon. Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya (President, UJOA) and HW Christine Turibamwe(Treasurer)

Earlier, the Uganda Judicial Officers Association (UJOA) Executive, led by President Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, met with the Deputy Chief Justice, Richard Buteera, at the Court of Appeal in Kampala. The meeting aimed to update the DCJ on the Association's progress.

In his remarks, the DCJ emphasized the importance of UJOA in fostering unity and professionalism among judicial officers. He said the Association plays a crucial role in helping its members understand their mandate and responsibilities. He stressed the need for Judicial Officers to have a clear vision of their role in delivering justice, regardless of their position or court level.

He highlighted that the public expects fair and timely justice from all Judicial Officers, whether at the Magistrates' Courts, High Court, Court of Appeal, or Supreme Court. He urged Judicial Officers to reflect on their work, ensuring that they are meeting public expectations of fairness and efficiency. He pointed out that no one else can deliver justice except those entrusted with the responsibility.

Addressing the relationship between UJOA and the Judiciary Top Management, Justice Buteera underscored the importance of collaboration. He encouraged continuous dialogue to define roles and align common interests, emphasizing that both UJOA and Top Management share the goal of ensuring justice delivery and improving the welfare of Judicial Officers.

He further stressed the need for Judicial Officers to maintain high ethical standards. He pointed out that Judicial Officers must be accountable not only to their profession but also to the public. He challenged UJOA to take an active role, using peer groups, to address issues such as absenteeism, misconduct, and unprofessional behavior among its members. He suggested that peer support and mentorship could be more effective in guiding colleagues rather than punishments.

Justice Buteera also urged UJOA to go beyond advocating for well-being, emphasizing the importance of performance and integrity. He noted that Judicial Officers are public figures whose actions are closely observed. He warned against behaviors that could damage their reputation and the credibility of the Judiciary.

In closing, he commended UJOA's leadership and encouraged them to continue fostering unity and professionalism. He reiterated the need for mutual support among judicial officers, emphasizing that strong leadership and ethical conduct would strengthen both the association and the Judiciary as a whole.

Lady Justice Kazaarwe acknowledged the DCJ's unwavering support for UJOA, noting his timely subscription, encouragement, and valuable advice. She expressed appreciation for his humble and fatherly approach, which she described as a guiding force for the Association.

She highlighted that when they took office, the Executive engaged the Judiciary's Top Management, including the Chief Justice, Principal Judge, Permanent Secretary, and Chief Registrar, to gather insights on enhancing the Association's effectiveness. Additionally, they consulted judicial officers at all levels, organizing virtual meetings to ensure inclusivity. She reported that the feedback received helped shape a two-year work plan built on three pillars: professional excellence, unity, and compassion.

To promote professional excellence, Lady Justice Kazaarwe reported that UJOA introduced monthly online dialogues featuring experts on various legal topics. She noted that these sessions, which began in May 2024, have contributed to improving judicial officers’ knowledge. Additionally, the Association also hosted its first professional dinner ,emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and engagement.

Recognizing the need for stronger member support, the President reported that UJOA formed a compassionate team to ensure presence at funerals, provide a wreath, and coordinate voluntary condolence contributions from members.

Additionally, the Executive organized a fundraising drive for HW Akankwasa Edward Kabayo (Chief Magistrate, Registry of Magistrates Affairs and Data Management), who requires dialysis, demonstrating their commitment to members' well-being. UJOA also visited the Internally Displaced People's Camp in Kiteezi, supporting families affected by the rubbish slide that claimed lives. They offered both material aid and legal services.

The president also reported that 109Judicial Officers from Uganda participated in the East African Magistrates and Judges Association (EAMJA) Conference in Arusha, Tanzania. She emphasized the Association’s commitment to maintaining this level of engagement. She also mentioned ongoing fundraising efforts to secure a UJOA van.

Looking ahead, she announced that UJOA is organizing a physical-virtual leadership dialogue on April 26, 2025,focusing on leadership skill development for a people-centered justice. The discussion will center on strengthening leadership capacity among judicial officers to enhance justice delivery in Uganda.

Additionally, she announced that a sports gala is scheduled for July 25 to mark the first International Day of Judicial Well-being. This initiative, inspired by a UN resolution, acknowledges the unique stresses faced by judicial officers and aims to promote their well-being. The association envisions making the gala an annual celebration of judicial well-being.

The president also informed the DCJ that the UJOA Annual General Meeting will be held in May 2025, providing a platform to review progress and set future goals.

She concluded by reaffirming the association's dedication to professional growth, unity, and compassion, emphasizing that collective efforts will enhance the effectiveness and well-being of judicial officers in Uganda.

HW Ayebare Daphine (Vice President, UJOA) thanked the DCJ for his support and guidance, acknowledging his willingness to engage with the Lower Bench. She appreciated his valuable advice and experience, noting that his professional insights have been instrumental. She also expressed hope that UJOA would continue to benefit from his wisdom.

The Executive presented a plaque to the DCJ in appreciation of his contributions to the Association, as well as other gifts, including an expenditure book.

The meeting was attended by HW Conrad Obol Oroya (UJOA General Secretary), Justice Oscar Kihika (Representative for the Court of Appeal), HW Sarah Tusiime Bashaija Barungi (Representative for Registrars), HW Praise Ahurira (Vice General Secretary), HW Christine Turibamwe(Treasurer), HW Lillian Mazimwe, Vice Treasurer, and HW Mallen Obizu (Vice Publicity Secretary/Editor).

Also present was HW Gakyaro Mpirwe Allan (Personal Assistant to the DCJ).