“As The Country Descends Into judicial Chaos, Owing Dollo Remains Seated, He Will Go Down As The Worst Chief Justice In Uganda” Says Top Ugandan Activist

Dr. Sarah Bireete, a prominent human rights activist and legal scholar, has strongly criticized Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, accusing him of being the most dishonest Chief Justice Uganda has had since independence. Her criticism comes in the context of growing concerns regarding judicial independence and the handling of important legal issues in the country.

Dr. Bireete specifically takes issue with Justice Owiny-Dollo’s delay in delivering a judgment on the controversial issue of trying civilians in military courts, arguing that this delay has perpetuated a culture of impunity. She asserts that this undermines the rule of law and infringes upon the rights of citizens.

In her remarks, Dr. Bireete emphasized that as Uganda faces a judicial crisis, the Chief Justice has failed to act on a critical ruling that could restore confidence in the judiciary.

The issue of using military courts to prosecute civilians has been a contentious one in Uganda for some time, with many critics arguing that it violates constitutional principles and international human rights standards. Despite these concerns, many had hoped that Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo would take decisive action to address the matter, but his failure to do so has led critics, like Dr. Bireete, to question his commitment to justice.

Beyond the specific issue of military courts, Dr. Bireete also highlighted the broader crisis facing Uganda’s judiciary. She pointed to the increasing politicization of the judicial process and the selective application of the law, accusing Owiny-Dollo of failing to protect the integrity of the judiciary and allowing it to become a tool of oppression.

On the other hand, supporters of the Chief Justice argue that judicial processes take time and point to reforms made during his tenure. However, critics argue that his legacy is being damaged by his perceived failure to address pressing legal and constitutional issues.

Dr. Bireete’s comments reflect the growing discontent among Ugandans, many of whom feel that the judiciary is failing to uphold justice. As the debate over judicial accountability continues, calls for reforms are gaining momentum, with Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo’s leadership increasingly under scrutiny.