KAMPALA, Uganda | The year 2024 witnessed a series of historic events that not only captured national and international headlines but also left a lasting imprint on Uganda’s justice and law sector. From landmark court rulings and high-profile trials to key legislative reforms, these moments reshaped the legal landscape and sparked widespread debate. Below is a summary of ten key events that defined the year.
Isaac Ssemakadde’s election as ULS president marked a significant shift toward a more proactive and issue-focused leadership style. Known for his uncompromising stance on justice and accountability, Ssemakadde prioritized institutional independence. One of his first actions was the removal of representatives of the Attorney General and Solicitor General from the ULS Council, citing conflicts of interest. He also recalled ULS representatives to the Judicial Service Commission to ensure their alignment with the society’s reform agenda. Ssemakadde’s direct critiques of high-profile individuals and government practices have drawn widespread attention, sparking debates about the future direction of Uganda’s legal profession.
Dr. Kizza Besigye was abducted from Kenya and forcibly transferred to Uganda without formal extradition proceedings, raising significant legal and ethical concerns. He was charged with offenses related to national security and possession of illegal firearms, allegations his legal team denies. Efforts to have Martha Karua, a Kenyan lawyer, represent Besigye at the General Court Martial were blocked when she was denied a practicing certificate in Uganda. The case continues to draw criticism over perceived political interference in the judicial process.
Justice Esther Kisakye fled Uganda in 2024, citing sustained pressure and alleged threats following her dissent in politically sensitive cases. Kisakye had publicly clashed with judiciary leadership, accusing them of interference and undermining judicial independence. Her departure has drawn international attention, with calls from legal bodies and human rights organizations for measures to protect judicial officers facing similar challenges.
The death of businessman Henry Katanga in November 2023 shocked the nation. His wife, Molly Katanga, was charged with his murder, while their daughters and others faced charges related to destroying evidence and being accessories. Key forensic evidence and testimonies revealed alleged domestic disputes. As of December 2024, the trial continues, drawing significant public attention.
Justice Lydia Mugambe was charged in the United Kingdom with offenses related to modern slavery involving her domestic workers. The allegations include claims of mistreatment and exploitation of employees. Mugambe has denied the charges, and the case is currently under investigation by UK authorities.
The Constitutional Court upheld significant portions of the Anti-Homosexuality Act while striking out four sections, including those penalizing persons for merely identifying as LGBTQ+. The court found these sections to be unconstitutional, citing violations of individual rights and procedural irregularities during the Act’s passage. The ruling generated mixed reactions, with human rights advocates welcoming the partial repeal and conservative groups expressing dissatisfaction.
Thomas Kwoyelo, a former commander of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), was sentenced to 40 years in prison after being found guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The charges included acts committed during the insurgency, such as murder, sexual violence, and abductions. This case was one of the major prosecutions under Uganda’s International Crimes Division, established to handle complex war crime cases.
Parliament approved increasing the number of High Court and Court of Appeal judges to 151 and 56, respectively, to address case backlogs and improve access to justice. A proposal to expand the Supreme Court was rejected due to questions over its necessity and its potential impact on the institutions budget.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) held a confirmation of charges hearing in absentia for Joseph Kony, the fugitive leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army. The hearing focused on charges including murder, sexual enslavement, and forced recruitment of children as soldiers, among other crimes against humanity and war crimes. Witnesses provided detailed accounts of atrocities allegedly committed under Kony’s command. The Pre-Trial Chamber will decide whether the evidence presented is sufficient to proceed to trial. Kony remains at large.
The President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni, signed the National Coffee (Amendment) Act, 2024, into law, officially dissolving the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA). The National Coffee Bill was passed amid heated debates and disruptions in Parliament. The bill dissolved the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), transferring its roles to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries. Lawmakers clashed over the implications of this move, with some arguing it would streamline governance in the coffee sector, while others raised concerns about potential inefficiencies and risks to Uganda’s coffee exports. The decision marked a significant change in the management of the country’s most lucrative export crop.
These events represent significant milestones in Uganda’s justice and legal systems in 2024. They showcased changes in governance, judicial reforms, and key legal battles, leaving a lasting impact on the country’s legal framework and institutions.
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