Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo has handed over office to the Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, marking the conclusion of his five-year tenure at the helm of the Judiciary.
The handover ceremony, witnessed by both judicial and non-judicial officers, saw the Chief Justice present Justice Zeija with a copy of the Constitution, the Laws of Uganda, the Administration of the Judiciary Act, and a handover report to guide him in the execution of his duties.
In his farewell remarks, Justice Owiny-Dollo expressed deep appreciation to the Judiciary’s Top Management and the wider Judiciary family for the unwavering support accorded to him throughout his service. He noted that the Judiciary would always remain his second family, affirming that he would forever consider himself a permanent member of the institution. He further underscored the importance of concluding all pending matters before him, even as he retires from active judicial service.
The Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, paid glowing tribute to Justice Owiny-Dollo’s participatory and transformational leadership style, particularly during the early years of his tenure when he spearheaded far-reaching judicial reforms. He commended him for championing a significant increase in the Judiciary’s budget, advancing the Africanisation of Uganda’s Judiciary through platforms such as the African ADR Forum, and strengthening Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms.
Justice Zeija also recalled Justice Owiny-Dollo’s earlier role in initiating peace negotiations between the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) rebels and the Government of Uganda, describing him as a leader who consistently empowered those around him and created space for effective performance.
The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, described the outgoing Chief Justice as a mentor, teacher, and source of inspiration, praising his patient, wise, and consultative leadership style. She highlighted his pioneering role in re-engineering Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Alternative Justice Systems (AJS), reforms she said have had a profound and lasting impact on the justice sector.
She further noted that under his leadership, plea bargaining reshaped criminal procedure in Uganda by reducing delays, easing the burden on courts, prosecutors, witnesses, and victims, and promoting more restorative outcomes.
“These reforms greatly strengthened the mandate of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and significantly accelerated case disposal across the justice sector,” she observed.
Lady Justice Abodo also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the warm welcome and guidance she received from Justice Owiny-Dollo upon her appointment as Principal Judge, noting that his openness and encouragement made her transition seamless.
The Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Judiciary, Dr. Pius Bigirimana, thanked Justice Owiny-Dollo for his steadfast support of the institution’s 15-point programme, particularly in advancing financial discipline and accountability. He also commended him for his unwavering commitment during the Judiciary’s successful budget enhancement efforts.
The Acting Chief Registrar, HW Lamunu Pamella Ocaya, described the ceremony as a moment of transition, reflection, and gratitude. She noted that Justice Owiny-Dollo rendered distinguished and selfless service to the nation, leading with integrity, courage, and unwavering fidelity to justice. She added that his stewardship strengthened judicial systems, enhanced professionalism, and reaffirmed the Judiciary’s constitutional mandate to dispense justice fairly, independently, and without fear or favour—especially for vulnerable and ordinary Ugandans.
Throughout the ceremony, Justice Owiny-Dollo was widely commended for his humility, resilience, and deep appreciation of Uganda’s diverse cultures.
