Newly Appointed Judges, Including Deputy CJ Zeija, Face Vetting Before Parliament

Parliament has officially commenced the vetting process for the newly appointed Deputy Chief Justice, Flavian Zeija, along with 21 other judges selected by President Museveni last week.

In accordance with his constitutional powers under Article 142(1)and (2), the President appointed these judges to the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, and High Court.

This morning, the appointees, including Justice Zeija, entered the precincts of Parliament to undergo the vetting process before the Parliamentary Appointments Committee. The committee, chaired by Speaker Anita Among, will review their qualifications and suitability for the positions.

On February 7, 2025, President Yoweri Museveni appointed Justice Flavian Zeija as the new Deputy Chief Justice of Uganda, succeeding Justice Richard Buteera, who is set to retire in April.

In addition to Justice Zeija’s appointment, the President announced several other judicial appointments: Justice Muzamil Mutangula Kibeedi was appointed to the Supreme Court to fill the vacancy left by Justice Esther Kisaakye, who fled into exile last year.

To the Court of Appeal , eight new justices were appointed, including Justice Musa Ssekaana, Lady Justices Ketra Kitariisibwa Katunguka, Sabiiti Cornelia Kakooza, Stella Alibateese, Florence Nakacwa, and Esta Nambayo, as well as Justices Jesse Byaruhanga Rugyema and John Mike Musisi.

Twenty-one acting judges were appointed for a two-year term, among them Sarah Langa Siu, who was the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, and Rosemary Bareebe Ngabirano, a former Registrar of the High Court.

The vetting process involves the Parliamentary Appointments Committee reviewing the qualifications, experience, and integrity of the nominees. The committee conducts interviews and may seek additional information before making recommendations to the full Parliament for approval. This process ensures that only qualified individuals assume judicial positions, maintaining the integrity and independence of Uganda’s judiciary.

These appointments are part of the government’s efforts to strengthen the judiciary and enhance the administration of justice in Uganda.