By Hannah Marion Namukasa
The Chief Justice of Uganda, His Lordship Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny Dollo, has appointed Lady Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga as the Acting Principal Judge, following the elevation of Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija to the position of Deputy Chief Justice.
In a statement released by the Judiciary on Thursday, Justice Kajuga’s appointment is aimed at ensuring the continued delivery of justice and effective administration of the High Court and subordinate courts across the country. She will serve in an acting capacity until a substantive Principal Judge is officially appointed.
The Chief Justice congratulated Justice Kajuga on her new role and expressed confidence in her ability to support the Judiciary’s leadership and efforts to improve access to justice. “This appointment reinforces our commitment to strengthening institutional leadership within the Judiciary,” the statement read.
Lady Justice Kajuga, appointed to the High Court in 2019, currently serves as Deputy Head of the Anti-Corruption Division. Known for her diligence and integrity, she has presided over several high-profile corruption cases, including the ongoing Karamoja iron sheets scandal involving senior government officials Amos Lugoloobi and Agnes Nandutu.
In 2020, she was appointed the Judiciary’s Focal Judge for Plea Bargain and has successfully implemented the program nationwide, contributing to more efficient and participatory criminal justice processes. She is also recognized for her advocacy of Alternative Dispute Resolution and serves as a court-accredited mediator in the Family Division of the High Court.
Prior to her judicial appointment, Justice Kajuga served 20 years with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), where she rose to the rank of Senior Assistant Director and held the position of spokesperson for over 14 years. Her tenure at the ODPP was marked by notable successes in international cooperation and high-profile prosecutions.
Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, whose elevation prompted Kajuga’s appointment, was sworn in as Deputy Chief Justice on Wednesday, succeeding Justice Richard Buteera who retired on April 9th upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.
The position of Principal Judge will be substantively filled by appointment of the President upon consultation with the Judicial Service Commission.
