Attorney General to Mend Judiciary-Lawyers Rift

Attorney General Dr. Sam Mayanja has announced a proactive approach to mend the strained relationship between the Judiciary and the Uganda Law Society (ULS). He stressed that fostering a stronger partnership is crucial for the efficient administration of justice within the country.

Mayanja has already begun consultations, engaging Chief Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija to address the challenges hindering collaboration. “I have already started the process of restoring the relationship between the Judiciary and the legal profession because a strong partnership is necessary for justice to be administered effectively,” Mayanja stated.

These remarks were made during the launch of the Judicial Service Commission’s (JSC) Strategic Plan III (2025/26-2029/30). The launch highlighted the ongoing tensions, particularly the vacant seats on the JSC reserved for ULS representatives due to disagreements.

The Attorney General highlighted that lawyers are integral to the justice system and warned that continued discord could erode public faith and deter investors. He confirmed that a meeting involving the Judiciary, ULS, and government representatives is scheduled for July 27, 2026, to resolve the dispute and reinstate the legal profession’s representation on the Commission.

Mayanja also indicated that once relations improve, he will brief President Museveni to fast-track government support for the completion of the Uganda Law Society headquarters, a commitment previously made.

Chief Justice Zeija, meanwhile, urged the JSC to uphold merit-based appointments and promotions while maintaining a firm stance against corruption, emphasizing that competence and qualification should guide all decisions.

In other developments, the JSC reported receiving 576 complaints against judicial officers, with 397 resolved and approximately 200 still under investigation. Challenges such as inadequate funding and difficulties in securing witnesses were cited as impediments to their work.