news 19 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Supreme Court Pays Tribute to Retiring Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo for Judicial Reforms
Uganda's Supreme Court held a special session to honor former Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo upon his retirement, praising his leadership in expanding judicial infrastructure, boosting recruitment, and embracing technology. Speakers hailed his consultative style and key achievements like securing permanent premises for major courts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/supreme-court-honours-former-chief-justice-owiny-dollo-5429116
The Supreme Court convened a special sitting on Friday to celebrate former Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo’s tenure, which ended after he reached the mandatory retirement age of 70.
Chief Justice Flavian Zeija presided over the panel that approved a motion by Solicitor General Pius Biribonohwa to formally recognize Dollo’s contributions. Justice Lillian Tibatemwa Ekirikubinza delivered the ruling, noting his reforms in judicial infrastructure, staff expansion, and IT adoption.
“The court is satisfied that this is a fit and proper application to commemorate the distinguished service rendered by Justice Dollo to the people of Uganda,” Tibatemwa stated. The court ordered all tributes preserved in its permanent records.
Tributes highlighted Dollo’s consultative leadership, including new court buildings, regional High Court circuits, and better staff welfare. Tibatemwa specifically praised the Twin Towers as permanent homes for the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal.
Minister Norbert Mao shared personal memories from his Makerere University days, crediting Dollo’s mentorship. Chief Justice Zeija called him a “titan of the law” who bolstered judicial independence through integrity and hard work.
Dollo retired on January 18 but stayed on for three months to wrap up cases. Zeija vowed to continue his reforms for a stronger judiciary.
This rare ceremonial event affirmed Dollo’s lasting impact on Uganda’s legal system.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)