Published: December 31, 2025
By: HW Kyembe Karim, Magistrate Grade I, Pallisa
As 2025 comes to a close, I find myself deeply moved by the recent speech delivered by His Lordship Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo during the Annual Registrars and Magistrates Conference on December 18, 2025, at Hotel Africana, Kampala.
For many of us on the lower bench, this address felt like a poignant farewell. The Chief Justice hinted that it might be his last time speaking to us in his current capacity, after serving more than five and a half years at the helm. What followed was one of the most emotional yet profoundly inspirational speeches I have ever witnessed from him—a message of gratitude, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice that left the entire hall in reflective silence.
#Gratitude and Teamwork
The CJ began by expressing heartfelt thanks to those who stood closest to him:
– His Lordship Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera,
– His Lordship Principal Judge Flavian Zeija,
– Lady Justice Sarah Langa Siu (who was Chief Registrar then).
He said:
“Without them, there would be nothing to write home about.”
These words remind us that no leader achieves greatness alone; success in the Judiciary is always a collective effort.
#The Dignity of the Judiciary
He firmly restated the constitutional truth many of us hold dear:
“The Judiciary is not just a third arm of government but at par with Parliament and the Executive.”
And with a spiritual dimension, he added:
“The Lord has appointed the 500 of us to preside over His people and dispense justice.”
Leadership Through “We”
The Chief Justice described his style of leadership in simple yet powerful terms:
“My mode of administration has not been ‘I’ but ‘WE’. I stood up on your behalf and fought.”
He spoke of giving second chances, listening patiently to those accused of mistakes, and viewing baseless allegations as opportunities for divine vindication:
“Always be happy about accusations, because if they are not true, that person has brought you to Us and we now know you!”
Magistrates as Pillars
To magistrates like myself, his words were particularly uplifting:
“You are the pillars on which the roof of the Judiciary stands.”
He proudly noted the growth of the Judiciary budget from UGX 199 billion in 2020 to UGX 435 billion in 2025, with a clear vision that every district should have at least a Chief Magistrate and a High Court Judge.
A Call to Integrity and Mentorship
Throughout the hour-long address, he urged us repeatedly:
“Be fair, don’t take bribes, feel bad that a case has taken long before you…”
“Mentor those junior to you, fight corruption, and talk to one another…”
He highlighted ongoing infrastructure developments and reaffirmed his lifelong bond with the institution:
“This is my only home… Even when I am outside, I will always fight for the Judiciary. I am permanently part of the Judiciary.”
Finally, with quiet contentment, he concluded:
“I retire a very contented man. God knows I tried and worked for this office with love.”
Carrying the Message Forward
As a Grade I Magistrate serving in Pallisa, these words have stayed with me. They challenge us all—wherever we serve—to uphold integrity, embrace teamwork, mentor the next generation, and remember the sacred trust placed in our hands. As we step into 2026, let us renew our commitment to timely, fair, and incorruptible justice for the people of Uganda.
To my fellow judicial officers, staff, and all who believe in the rule of law: May the new year bring you good health, peace, joy, and strength in service.
Happy Blessed 2026! ⚖️🌟
HW Kyembe Karim
Magistrate Grade I, Pallisa
