The Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Richard Buteera (middle), Bishop Joshua Lwere of Grace Assembly Church, Kampala(R)
March 28 2025: The Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Richard Buteera, presided over the quarterly Judiciary Prayer and thanksgiving Breakfast at the Supreme Court Building Conference Hall in Kampala.
The prayer breakfast featured both physical and online attendance. It was attended by judicial officers at different court levels, including Justices, Judges, Registrars, and Magistrates. Also present were religious leaders, heads of departments, Judiciary support staff, and members of the press, among others.
The main celebrant was Bishop Joshua Lwere of Grace Assembly Church, Kampala, while the programme moderator was the Ag. Chief Registrar, HW Pamella Lamunu Ocaya. Also in attendance was Bishop Dr. Moses Odongo, Archbishop of the National Fellowship of Born-Again Pentecostal churches in Uganda.
Speaking at the event, the DCJ commended the decision by the Chief Justice to hold the prayer breakfast quarterly, stressing that frequent thanksgiving fosters a deeper connection with God and a stronger sense of purpose. He thanked all participants for setting aside time for thanksgiving. He also conveyed greetings from the Chief Justice, who was unable to attend but sent his best wishes.
Justice Buteera's message on thanksgiving was drawn from various Bible verses: Luke 17:11-19(NIV), particularly verses 17-18; Psalm 103:1-5; and Psalms100:1-3.
Reflecting on these scriptures, he emphasized the importance of giving thanks to God for His mercy, protection, and guidance. He noted that life, good health, and the wisdom to serve are blessings that should not be taken for granted. Justice Buteera highlighted that judicial officers carry significant responsibilities, and it is by God's grace that they can effectively perform their duties, even in challenging circumstances.
On the appointment and qualities of a good judge, his message was drawn from Exodus 18:21 (NIV), Deuteronomy16:18-20, Proverbs 9:10, Luke 16:10 (NLT), and 1 Samuel12:3. He reflected on the qualities expected of judges, as outlined in scripture, emphasizing capability, integrity, fear of God, and impartiality.
He reminded judicial officers that justice should never be compromised by dishonesty, bias, or corruption. He urged judicial officers to uphold the highest ethical standards, emphasizing that fairness and integrity strengthen public confidence in the Judiciary.
On Alternative Dispute Resolution(ADR), DCJ referenced 1 Corinthians 6:1-7, encouraging Judicial Officers to embrace reconciliation and mediation as part of their service to the community. He cited biblical teachings that advocate for peaceful dispute resolution and called on the Judiciary to lead by example in fostering harmony and justice.
He concluded by urging judicial officers to continuously evaluate themselves against the principles of independence, impartiality, integrity, and diligence. By staying true to these values, they would effectively serve the people of Uganda and uphold the Judiciary’s mandate with honor and dedication.
In her remarks, Lady Justice Sarah Langa Siu, the vision bearer for the Judiciary Christian Fellowship, newly appointed to the high bench, expressed her gratitude to God for her new role.
Speaking on behalf of the Judiciary Christian Fellowship, she delivered a special message to the Chief Justice, highlighting their joy and commitment for continued fellowship. She noted that the Chief Justice had proposed making the Thanksgiving a quarterly feature on the Judiciary calendar.
She added that as members of the Fellowship they hold retreats thrice a year to reflect and give thanks.
Justice Langa underscored the importance of praising the Lord without focusing on outcomes, expressing gratitude for families and offering blessings. She also extended special thanks to the DCJ for his role in previous prayer gatherings, particularly at the Grand Imperial Hotel in 2021, and shared that they are now praying for his long life. Quoting Psalms 91:16, she asked that the Lord would grant him salvation and a long life.
HW Lamunu emphasized that the gathering was an opportunity to give thanks and worship the Lord for His blessings, both personally and as a Judiciary.
In his sermon, Bishop Lwere delivered a message on the timely administration of justice, stressing that justice should not be delayed. He emphasized the need for integrity and hard work, citing Ephesians 4:28, and urged participants to uphold honesty, diligence, and generosity. He encouraged them to strive for excellence, and referencing Colossians 3L24, reminded them that their service is ultimately for the Lord.
The closing prayer, led by Bishop Odongo, expressed gratitude for life, the privilege of upholding justice, and Judiciary’s dedication to fairness. He prayed for wisdom, courage, and humility for judicial officers, asking for protection from corruption and undue influence. He also blessed the offerings and prayed for continued unity, integrity, and success in service.
HW Timothy Lumunye (Ag. Chief Magistrate Buganda Road Court sitting at Law Development Centre Court) and Mr. Brian Oryema (Computer Programmer, Judiciary) led sessions of praise and worship.
Posted 28th, March 2025
