Uganda’s Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo has issued a strong call for judicial independence while presiding over the official handover ceremony of the Deputy Chief Justice position at the Supreme Court in Kampala. The event marked the transition from outgoing Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera to his successor, Justice Flavian Zeija, with the nation’s top judge emphasizing three critical pillars – an independent judiciary, efficient case handling, and maintaining public confidence.

Standing before assembled judicial officers in the Supreme Court Conference Hall, Chief Justice Dollo praised Justice Buteera’s distinguished service, describing his tenure as marked by unwavering integrity and commitment to the rule of law. “Justice Buteera has served this nation with remarkable dedication and judicial wisdom that has left an indelible mark on our justice system,” Dollo stated. “His leadership has strengthened our courts and his legacy will continue to guide us.”

The ceremony brought together key figures from Uganda’s legal community, including Lady Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga, the Acting Principal Judge, along with other senior judicial officers. Acting Chief Registrar Pamela Ocaya coordinated the formal proceedings, while Judiciary Public Relations Officer James Mawanda ensured smooth media coverage of the significant transition.

In his farewell remarks, Justice Buteera expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and voiced confidence in his successor’s ability to advance the judiciary’s work. “I leave this office knowing it is in capable hands,” Buteera said, addressing Justice Zeija directly. “The foundation has been laid, and I have no doubt you will build upon it with excellence.” The outgoing deputy justice’s speech carried tones of both accomplishment and anticipation for the judiciary’s future direction.

The newly appointed Deputy Chief Justice, Flavian Zeija, previously served as Principal Judge before his elevation to the second-highest judicial office. In his acceptance speech, Zeija pledged to uphold the sacred principles of justice while maintaining the judiciary’s independence from external influences. “We shall continue to discharge our duties with professionalism, humility and unwavering commitment to justice,” Zeija declared. His remarks emphasized continuity in the judiciary’s mission while hinting at his own vision for the office.

Chief Justice Dollo’s address formed the centerpiece of the ceremony, with the nation’s top judicial officer using the platform to reinforce fundamental principles. “An independent judiciary remains the cornerstone of our democracy,” Dollo asserted. “Without it, the rule of law crumbles and citizens lose faith in justice.” His words carried particular weight amid ongoing discussions about judicial autonomy in Uganda and across the region.

The Chief Justice elaborated on the connection between judicial independence and public trust, noting that courts must not only be free from interference but must also be seen to be free. “When citizens believe their cases will be heard fairly and decided without outside pressure, they develop confidence in the entire justice system,” Dollo explained. This relationship between perception and reality formed a key theme of his address.

Efficiency in case disposal emerged as another priority in Dollo’s remarks. With case backlogs remaining a challenge for Uganda’s judicial system, the Chief Justice stressed that timely justice forms part of the judiciary’s obligation to citizens. “Justice delayed is justice denied remains more than just a saying – it’s a daily reality we must confront through improved case management and innovative solutions,” he told the gathering.

The handover ceremony symbolized both continuity and change in Uganda’s judicial leadership. Justice Buteera’s departure marks the end of an era that saw significant developments in court operations and legal reforms. His successor, Justice Zeija, brings his experience as former Principal Judge to the deputy position, suggesting potential new approaches to persistent challenges like case backlogs and access to justice.

Observers noted the careful choreography of the event, from the formal handover of instruments of office to the precise wording of speeches. Each element appeared designed to reinforce stability within the judiciary during leadership transitions. The presence of multiple high-ranking judicial officers also demonstrated institutional support for the new deputy chief justice as he assumes his responsibilities.

As the ceremony concluded, attention turned to how Justice Zeija will interpret his new role. Legal analysts suggest his background as Principal Judge – a position deeply involved in day-to-day court administration – may influence his approach as deputy chief justice. Some anticipate increased focus on case management reforms and judicial training, areas where Zeija developed expertise during his previous posting.

The transition comes at a significant moment for Uganda’s judiciary, which continues to balance heavy caseloads with public expectations for fair and efficient justice. Chief Justice Dollo’s emphasis on independence, efficiency and public trust during the handover ceremony appears to set the tone for the judiciary’s priorities in the coming years. How these principles translate into concrete actions under the new leadership structure remains to be seen, but the ceremonial passing of the baton has undoubtedly marked a new chapter in Uganda’s judicial history.

With the formalities complete, Justice Zeija now assumes his duties as Uganda’s second-highest judicial officer, carrying forward the institution’s legacy while facing contemporary challenges. The handover ceremony, beyond its symbolic importance, has reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to its constitutional mandate – a message clearly articulated by Chief Justice Dollo and embraced by both outgoing and incoming deputy chief justices. As Uganda’s legal community reflects on the transition, the focus shifts to how these leadership changes will translate into tangible improvements in the delivery of justice across the nation.