President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially appointed Justice Flavian Zeija as the new Chief Justice of Uganda, following the retirement of Justice Alphonse Owiny-Dollo. Justice Owiny-Dollo, who had served as Chief Justice since 2020, retired three days ago after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70, capping a remarkable legal career spanning over four decades.
During his retirement, Justice Owiny-Dollo handed over his duties to his deputy, Justice Flavian Zeija, who has now been formally confirmed by the President as the head of Uganda’s judiciary. Zeija, 56 years old, previously served as Principal Judge until February 2025 and took over from Deputy Chief Justice Richard Butera upon his retirement. His career has been marked by years of experience in both the lower and higher courts of Uganda.
The appointment of Justice Zeija comes at a particularly critical time for the Supreme Court, which is expected to hear a presidential election petition filed by former presidential candidate Robert Kasibante. Kasibante is challenging President Museveni’s recent victory, seeking a court order to nullify the results and call for fresh elections. Zeija’s leadership will be closely watched as the Apex Court navigates this high-profile case.
Following the announcement, Justice Zeija appeared before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, chaired by Speaker Anita Among, for vetting. This process is mandatory for all high-ranking judicial appointments, and the committee will forward its report to the President for final confirmation.
While Zeija’s appointment as Chief Justice is now official, it is still unclear who will be named Deputy Chief Justice to head the Constitutional Court bench. This position is also crucial, especially given the pending election-related cases that the court will handle in the coming months.
President Museveni’s decision reflects continuity and stability within Uganda’s judiciary, ensuring experienced leadership at a time when the country faces important legal and constitutional challenges. Justice Zeija’s vast experience in Uganda’s legal system positions him well to lead the judiciary into a new era.
This appointment marks a significant moment in Uganda’s legal history, as the new Chief Justice steps into the role at a pivotal period, balancing judicial independence with national expectations. Observers say Zeija’s leadership style and experience will be key in maintaining public confidence in the judiciary.
As this is a developing story, updates on the Deputy Chief Justice appointment and the Supreme Court’s handling of the election petition are expected in the coming days. The nation watches closely as Uganda’s highest court prepares to operate under new leadership.
