The Judiciary formally celebrated the distinguished career of Chief Justice Emeritus, Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, at a farewell dinner hosted in his honor by his successor, Chief Justice Dr Flavian Zeija.
The event, held at the Sunset Restaurant in Speke Resort Munyonyo on Wednesday, 4th February 2026 evening, gathered Justices, Judges, government leaders, and judicial staff in an atmosphere of warmth and high regard, marking the conclusion of Justice Owiny-Dollo’s impactful tenure at the helm of Uganda’s courts.
In his tribute, Chief Justice Zeija thanked his predecessor for his steady leadership and assured him that his retirement would not mean a full disengagement from judicial affairs.
“We are not going to let you rest. We shall keep knocking on your door for advice. Your experience belongs not only to your family, but to the Judiciary and the nation,” Justice Zeija said.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon Norbert Mao, credited the retired Chief Justice with strengthening judicial independence, modernizing court operations, and steering the institution through complex matters with principle.
“The expanded infrastructure, digitisation of court processes, and stronger leadership we see today are the hallmarks of a transformative tenure,” Hon Norbert Mao said.
Speakers from across the court system detailed specific aspects of Justice Owiny-Dollo’s legacy.
Justice Mike Chibita highlighted his commitment to judicial training and institutional development, while Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire praised reforms that modernized court registries and advanced virtual hearings and mediation.
Lady Justice Sarah Langa Siu, who served as Chief Registrar during his tenure, hailed his calm temperament and fairness, which she said empowered judicial officers.
She specifically commended his “Transformational Agenda,” which laid the groundwork for court expansion and a boosted judiciary budget, making the institution a lucrative destination for legal professionals.
Reflecting on the collective spirit of his tenure, Justice Prof Andrew Khaukha noted the retired Chief Justice possessed an abundance mentality, fostering mentorship and shared success.
In his response, a Chief Justice Emeritus Owiny-Dollo reflected on his journey from a law student to the nation’s top judge expressing deep gratitude.
“I am deeply touched. Whatever we achieved was a shared endeavor for the good of our country,” he stated.
The Chief Justice of Uganda, Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, officially retired from the Judiciary on Sunday, January 18, 2026, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.
His departure marks the conclusion of a distinguished 17-year judicial career, in full accordance with Article 144(1)(a) of the Constitution.
Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo, born on January 18, 1956, first joined the Bench in 2008 with his appointment as a Judge of the High Court.
He was elevated to the Court of Appeal in 2015 and, two years later in 2017, appointed Deputy Chief Justice. In August 2020, he ascended to the nation’s highest judicial office, succeeding Justice Bart Katureebe as Chief Justice of Uganda.
