President Museveni appoints Justice Flavian Zeija as new Chief Justice
Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo hands over to Deputy CJ Zeija
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has appointed Hon. Justice Flavian Zeija as the new Chief Justice of the Republic of Uganda, replacing Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, who has retired after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70.
The appointment was made in exercise of the powers vested in the President under Article 142(1) of the 1995 Constitution, and on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). Justice Zeija’s nomination was submitted to Parliament and subsequently approved in accordance with constitutional requirements.
Justice Zeija now assumes leadership of the Judiciary, one of Uganda’s three arms of government, at a time when the courts are under increasing public scrutiny and pressure to enhance efficiency, access to justice, and judicial independence.
Replacing Owiny-Dollo
Justice Zeija succeeds Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, who officially exited office this month after reaching the constitutionally prescribed retirement age. Owiny-Dollo’s tenure was marked by administrative reforms, digitalisation efforts within the courts, and judicial handling of several high-profile constitutional and electoral matters.
Background and experience
Justice Flavian Zeija is a seasoned legal scholar, judicial administrator, and former private legal practitioner. He holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Makerere University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre, a Master of Laws, a PhD in Law, and a Master of Business Administration.
Before joining the Bench, Justice Zeija practiced law in private practice and lectured at several universities, including Uganda Christian University and Makerere University Business School, where he played a key role in developing business and commercial law programmes.
Judicial Career
He was appointed a Judge of the High Court in 2016 and later served as Resident Judge of the Mbarara High Court Circuit, one of the busiest judicial circuits in the country. In 2019, he was elevated to the position of Principal Judge, where he supervised High Court operations nationwide and played a central role in judicial administration.
Prior to his appointment as Chief Justice, Justice Zeija served as Deputy Chief Justice, working closely with the outgoing Chief Justice in managing the Supreme Court and the broader Judiciary.
Expectations ahead
As Chief Justice, Justice Zeija will preside over the Supreme Court, oversee the administration of all courts, and represent the Judiciary at national and international levels. His appointment is widely seen as a move aimed at ensuring continuity, administrative stability, and reform within the justice system.
The Presidential Press Unit confirmed that the appointment takes immediate effect.
