- The annual event brings together various stakeholders from Uganda’s legal and justice sectors to celebrate the legacy of Benedicto Kiwanuka, whose contributions to the rule of law and justice continue to inspire many.
Image: Sania Bairye
The Judiciary of Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to locating the remains of Benedicto Kiwanuka, Uganda’s first black Chief Justice, who was abducted and murdered in 1972 under the regime of President Idi Amin.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the 7th Annual Benedicto Kiwanuka Memorial Lecture, Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera shared that the Judiciary remains in contact with Kiwanuka’s family as efforts continue to find his remains and give him a proper burial.
This year’s memorial lecture will be held on September 20th, a day earlier than its traditional date of September 21st, to accommodate guests who might be unavailable on the weekend. The theme of the lecture is "“Promoting a People-Centered Approach to Justice," with Dr. Zahara Nampewo, a prominent legal scholar from Makerere University’s School of Law, serving as the keynote speaker.
The annual event brings together various stakeholders from Uganda’s legal and justice sectors to celebrate the legacy of Benedicto Kiwanuka, whose contributions to the rule of law and justice continue to inspire many.
Justice Seith Manyondo, retired Deputy Chief Justice, and Justice James Ogoola, retired Principal Judge, will be honored with the Benedicto Kiwanuka Life Achievement Award this year for their steadfast contributions to upholding justice in Uganda.
Kiwanuka, who served as Chief Justice from June 27, 1971, to his tragic disappearance on September 21, 1972, was forcibly removed from his High Court chambers by soldiers loyal to Idi Amin. Since then, his body has never been recovered.
The Judiciary's commitment to the search for his remains is a tribute to his unwavering dedication to justice and the rule of law, even in the face of tyranny.
Justice Buteera emphasized that the Judiciary's work in honoring Kiwanuka’s legacy aligns with Chapter 4 of Uganda's Constitution, which focuses on human rights and justice.
He noted the significance of Article 126 of the Constitution, which reflects on Uganda’s history and calls for a judicial system that fosters the rule of law and timely justice for all citizens.In his remarks,
Justice Buteera also stressed the importance of upholding legal principles, specifically highlighting that it is unlawful to re-arrest individuals immediately after they have been granted bail, regardless of whether the responsible parties are government officials or otherwise.
He called for accountability for such actions to maintain trust in the justice system.
The Judiciary’s continuous efforts to honor Benedicto Kiwanuka not only pay homage to his legacy but also remind the nation of the critical role justice plays in maintaining the rule of law and protecting human rights.