By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu,
NATIONAL
In a significant move, the President of Uganda has made a series of key appointments in the judiciary. Under the powers vested in him by Article 142 (1) and (2) of the Constitution, the President has appointed the Deputy Chief Justice, one Justice of the Supreme Court, eight Justices of the Court of Appeal and 22 Justices of the high court all advised by the Judicial Service Commission.
Hon. Justice Zeija Flavian has been appointed as the Deputy Chief Justice.He has been the principal judge and will be replacing Justice Richard Buteera who will be retiring in April this year.
Justice Muzamil Mutangula Kibeedi has been appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court while Hon. Lady Justice Ketra Kitariisibwa Katunguka, Hon. Lady Justice Sabiiti Cornelia Kakooza, Lady justice Stella Alibateese,Hon. Lady Justice Florence Nakacwa,Hon. Byaruhanga Jesse Rugyema, justice Musisi John Mike,Hon. Justice Ssekaana Musa and Hon. Lady Justice Nambayo Esta have been appointed justices of court of appeal.
In addition, the President has appointed 21 Judges of the High Court in acting capacity for a period of two years. These appointments are part of the expanded structure of the judiciary and reflect the Commission’s theme of being the “People’s Bridge to Justice.”
Acting Judges of the High Court for two years are:Her Worship Sarah Langa Siu, HW. Rosemary Bareebe Ngabirano, HW. Mary Babirye, HWLillian Alum Omara, HW Charles Kasibayo,HW. Mary Kaitesi Kisakye, HW Susan Odongo,Karooli Lwanga Ssemogerere HW Joanita Gertrude Bushara HW Simon Peter Kinobe Mutegeki, HW Vincent Opyene,Sarah Birungi Kalibbala,Isaac Teko Bony,HW Deepa Verma, HW Flavia Grace Lamuno HW Fatuma Nanziri Bwanika, Kwemara Kafuzi Gelase, HW Godfrey Himbaza, HW Prof Andrew Khaukha, HW Dr. Ginamia Melody Ngwatu, and HW Ida Nakiganda.
The president also reappointed Hon. Lady Justice Bukirwa Faridah Shamilah as acting Judge of the High Court for one year, following the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings against her.
These appointments were among the final activities conducted by the 6th Commission, led by Hon. Justice Benjamin I. Kabiito, whose term expired on January 21, 2025.
Maria Theresa Nabulya, Ag. Senior Communications Officer of the judiciary confirmed the news of the appointments.
