By Diana N.Kintu
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has sworn in a new team of top justice officials, calling for a justice system that is more accountable, people-focused, and in harmony with Uganda’s cultural and societal values. The ceremony took place at Mbale State Lodge and marked a significant step in the government’s efforts to reform the justice sector.
The newly appointed officials include Principal Judge Hon. Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, Director of Public Prosecutions Mr. Lino Anguzu, and Inspector General of Government (IGG) Hon. Lady Justice Aisha Naluzze, together with her deputies. These appointments come as part of a broader effort to strengthen leadership in Uganda’s justice institutions.
During the ceremony, President Museveni congratulated the appointees, highlighting their youth, professional achievements, and integrity. “I have followed your work closely and found you free from corruption. I am confident that you will lead the justice sector with competence and dedication,” he said.
The President reflected on Uganda’s ongoing efforts to reform state institutions in line with the principles of the liberation struggle. He noted that while the national army had been successfully rebuilt into a patriotic and disciplined force, other structures such as the civil service, police, and judiciary retained colonial-era practices that were often inefficient and detached from the needs of ordinary citizens.
“We need leaders who understand the people’s expectations of justice, including accountability, apology, and compensation for wrongs,” President Museveni said. He emphasised that the justice system must bridge the gap between formal legal frameworks and local community expectations, warning that unresolved grievances and perceived injustices fuel social unrest.
The President singled out Lady Justice Abodo, praising her tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions and expressing confidence in her ability to drive reforms as Principal Judge. He urged all the new officials to ensure that justice is delivered efficiently and transparently, emphasising that granting bail in serious criminal cases, for instance, should consider community sentiments and the impact on victims.
At the ceremony, Deputy Chief Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija also commended the new appointees. He encouraged Lady Justice Abodo to continue promoting plea bargaining, strengthen court inspections, oversee regular reviews of magistrate courts, and support special courts dedicated to handling gender-based violence cases.
The event was attended by other senior government officials, including the Attorney General and the Head of Public Service, reflecting the administration’s commitment to reinforcing institutional integrity in the justice sector.
President Museveni concluded by reiterating the importance of a justice system that is aligned with the values of the Ugandan people. He said that reforms led by competent and ethical leaders would restore public confidence in the judiciary and other justice institutions, ultimately contributing to national stability and peace.
The swearing-in of this new team represents a critical step toward building a more accountable, transparent, and citizen-centered justice system in Uganda, with the government emphasising both professional excellence and responsiveness to the expectations of ordinary Ugandans.