By Diana N. Kintu
Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Wednesday convened to scrutinise the nomination of Hon. Justice Dr Flavian Zeija, who has been selected by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for appointment as the next Chief Justice of the Republic of Uganda.
The sitting, chaired by the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, marked a critical stage in the constitutional process for appointing the head of the Judiciary. In accordance with Article 142(1) of the 1995 Constitution, the Chief Justice is appointed by the President on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission and with the approval of Parliament.
During the session, members of the committee examined Justice Zeija’s professional competence, integrity, leadership record and suitability to occupy the country’s highest judicial office. The committee is expected to compile its report and forward recommendations to the President, who will then make the final appointment decision.
Justice Zeija’s nomination followed a formal recommendation by the Judicial Service Commission and was later confirmed through a press release issued by the State House Department of Press and Public Relations. The announcement has since attracted widespread attention from legal practitioners, civil society organisations and the general public, given the significance of the office and the transition taking place within the Judiciary.
Following the committee’s deliberations, a message shared by one of the members congratulated the nominee, stating: “Congratulations, Justice Zeija, on catching the eye of the appointing authority.” The remark reflected growing confidence among some legislators in the nominee’s credentials and track record.
Justice Zeija has been nominated to succeed Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, who retired in January 2026 after reaching the mandatory retirement age. Owiny-Dollo had served as head of the Judiciary since 2020, presiding over a period characterised by institutional reforms, the expansion of digital court systems and efforts to improve access to justice across the country. His tenure also saw the Judiciary navigate complex constitutional and electoral disputes, reinforcing its role as a key pillar of governance.
The retirement of Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo created an opening for new leadership at the apex of the Judiciary, with Justice Zeija now poised to assume the mantle should his appointment be confirmed.
Justice Zeija brings to the role extensive judicial and administrative experience. He previously served as Principal Judge from 2019 to 2025, during which time he was credited with introducing reforms aimed at streamlining case management, reducing judicial backlogs and improving efficiency within the courts. He later served as Deputy Chief Justice, further strengthening his familiarity with the leadership demands of the Judiciary.
In addition to his judicial career, Justice Zeija is an accomplished academic with advanced qualifications in law and management. His academic background is widely viewed as complementing his judicial expertise, equipping him with the skills required to oversee both legal adjudication and institutional administration.
If confirmed as Chief Justice, Justice Zeija will assume responsibility for supervising the administration of justice, ensuring judicial independence and upholding the rule of law. He will also be expected to continue ongoing reforms while addressing persistent challenges such as case delays, limited resources and public confidence in the justice system.
As Parliament’s Appointments Committee finalises its report, the country awaits the President’s decision, which will determine the next chapter in Uganda’s judicial leadership.