The Chief Justice, Hon. Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny - Dollo (middle in green shirt)
The Chief Justice, Hon. Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny - Dollo, today officially closed a four-day high-level training programme for Supreme Court Justices onElectoral Disputes Management. The training, held at Nile Resort Hotel in Jinja, was organised by the Judicial Training Institute (JTI) to enhance judicial preparedness ahead of the forthcoming presidential elections.
In his closing remarks, the Chief Justice applauded the Justices of the Supreme Court for their consistent participation and dedication throughout the intensive programme. He also recognised the active involvement of the Attorney General, Hon. Kiwanuka Kiryowa, and the Solicitor General, Mr. Pius Perry Birinonwoha, noting that their contributions added depth and practical perspective to the discussions.
He extended heartfelt appreciation to Justice Mike Chibita, Chairperson of the JTI Governing Council, and Justice Prof. Andrew Khaukha, Executive Director of JTI, together with the organising team, for designing what he described as a "well-structured and purposeful training programme." He noted that the clarity of the curriculum, the expertise of the presenters, and the relevance of the topics covered should serve as the standard for future JTI trainings.
Reflecting on his tenure, Justice Owiny - Dollo observed that this training would likely be the last he attends as head of the Judiciary. He urged JTI to sustain its momentum in driving reforms and enhancing capacity within the institution.
"The Judicial Training Institute must, moving forward, be a principal actor. If we are to transform the way we work, JTI must be at the forefront. In a few years, it should be clear that we are operating in a different Judiciary from the one I took over five years ago," he said.
Justice Mike Chibita congratulated participants on completing what he termed a "historic training." He commended the facilitators for delivering high-quality presentations and expressed gratitude to the Attorney General and Deputy Solicitor General for attending in person. He applauded the strong turnout of Supreme Court Justices, noting that only one was unavoidably absent, and further recognised JTI staff and the hotel management for flawlessly supporting the programme. Justice Chibita also highlighted the crucial role of research magistrates, whose analytical work strengthens judicial decision-making.
Justice Prof. Andrew Khaukha, Executive Director of JTI, thanked the Chief Justice for his guidance in shaping the programme. He acknowledged the Governing Council for developing a curriculum tailored to the practical needs of the Supreme Court. He further extended appreciation to partner institutions and judiciaries from Kenya, Malawi, and England and Wales, whose comparative insights enriched the training. He also thanked the Ministry of Justice and Senior Counsel John Mary Mugisha for their expert contributions on legal issues relevant to potential presidential election petitions.
Earlier in the day, participants engaged in several high-level presentations. Lady Justice Maria Mapani Kawimba, Chairperson of the Chief Justice's Advisory Committee on Election Disputes Handling in Zambia, delivered a comparative session on presidential election petition management. Justice Smokin Wanjala of the Supreme Court of Kenya presented on judgment writing in presidential election petitions. Additionally, a panel discussion explored the role of advocates and academia in shaping electoral justice, featuring Attorney General Kiwanuka Kiryowa, Senior Counsel John Mary Mugisha, and Solicitor General Pius Perry Birinonwoha.
The day's proceedings were chaired by Justices Christopher Izama Madrama and Stephen Musota, with HW Lillian Bucyana, Acting Registrar of JTI, serving as moderator.
The four-day programme concluded with the awarding of certificates of completion to all participants, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony to mark the achievement.
Posted 11th, December 2025
