DCJ Presides Over Swearing-In Ceremony of New Judicial Service Commission Leaders
(L-R): Deputy Chief Justice, Hon. Justice Richard Buteera (DCJ) with Justice Dr. Singiza Douglas Karekona(New Chairperson, Judicial Service Commissioner)
The new leadership of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) was today sworn-in, in a ceremony presided over by the Deputy Chief Justice, Richard Buteera, at the Court of Appeal Building Conference Hall in Kampala.
Justice Dr. Singiza Douglas Karekona was sworn in as the new Chairperson of the JSC, with Lady Justice Rosette Comfort Kania taking oath as Deputy Chairperson. Mr. Frank Musingwire, representing the Public Service Commission, also took the oath as a member of the Commission.
Speaking at the ceremony, Justice Buteera congratulated the new appointees and urged them to serve with integrity, fairness, and independence. He reminded them that their roles, outlined under Article 147 of the Constitution, place them at the heart of Uganda’s judicial system - from advising the President on judicial appointments to handling matters of discipline and removal of judicial officers.
"You have answered not just a constitutional call, but also a call from God to serve the people of Uganda, "Justice Buteera said, emphasizing that their oath must guide them in executing their duties without fear, favour, or bias.
Justice Buteera pointed out the Judiciary's continued shortage of both Judicial Officers and support staff, urging the new Commission to play a critical role in addressing these gaps to enable the delivery of timely and fair justice to all Ugandans.
While reaffirming the Commission's constitutional independence, Justice Buteera also stressed the importance of collaboration between the JSC and the Judiciary, warning against operating in isolation.
Justice Dr. Singiza, in his maiden remarks as JSC Chairperson, paid tribute to senior Judicial Officers who mentored him, including the late Justice Alfred Karokora and retired Lady Justice Flavia Anglin.
He acknowledged the achievements of past Commissions but highlighted persistent challenges, including:
- The public perception of corruption within the Judiciary.
- Underutilization of technology in recruitment and disciplinary processes.
Going forward, Justice Singiza pledged to focus on strengthening transparency, leveraging technology, and building institutional capacity through enhanced staffing and funding.
"The Commission will intensify public education and research while ensuring firm action against misconduct within the judiciary," he said.
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, commended Justice Singiza's integrity and scholarly judgments during his time on the Bench, expressing confidence in his leadership of the JSC.
Hon. Mao emphasized the Commission's critical role in shaping a principled and trustworthy Judiciary, noting that its decisions have lasting impacts on the country's justice system.
Dr. Theopista Mary Wenene, Deputy Head of Public Service, echoed similar sentiments, urging the new Commission members to ensure that appointments within the Judiciary are conducted transparently and based solely on merit.
"Appointments must not only reward competence but also uphold the highest standards in the administration of justice," she said.
She also encouraged the new leaders to undergo orientation and training to equip them for the demanding responsibilities ahead.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including members of the Judiciary's senior management, judicial officers from various court levels, representatives from the Judicial Service Commission, family, and friends.
The event was moderated by Acting Chief Registrar, HW Lamunu Pamela Ocaya, assisted by Judiciary Public Relations Officer, HW James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda.
As Uganda's 7th Judicial Service Commission embarks on its mandate, expectations are high that its new leadership will deliver reforms that promote integrity, enhance judicial efficiency, and build greater public trust in the justice system.
Posted 8th, April 2025
