Kampala– The Uganda Judicial Officers’ Association (UJOA) has today held its Annual General Meeting at the Supreme Court Conference Hall in Kampala, with the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, urging judicial officers to remain united, professional and committed to service delivery.
The meeting, held under the theme “Professional Excellence, Unity and Compassion,” brought together Judicial Officers at all court levels. It featured the election of a new Executive Committee, led by HW Daphne Ayebare, who becomes the Association’s second female President.
Lady Justice Abodo represented the Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, who is the Patron of UJOA. She conveyed greetings from the Chief Justice and congratulated the UJOA Electoral Commission, the outgoing leadership, and the newly elected executive.
She commended members who participated in the elections, describing leadership in the Association as voluntary and sacrificial. She also appreciated those who contested but were not successful, noting that every profession needs a strong association to provide a collective voice for its members.
Lady Justice Abodo described the magistracy and registry as the backbone and face of the Judiciary, saying litigants often interact with them first in the justice system.
She noted the growing number of judicial officers within the Judiciary and pledged that a Registrars’ Conference, which she said was long overdue, would soon be organised. Justice Abodo added that a conference for Judges would also be convened in light of the increasing number of judicial officers.
On welfare and professional growth, the Principal Judge shared that discussions on salary enhancement for Magistrates were ongoing and urged judicial officers to remain focused on service delivery as negotiations continue.
She praised UJOA for fostering unity among judicial officers at all levels and thanked the outgoing President, Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, and her Executive for their service and commitment despite demanding workloads.
Lady Justice Abodo also highlighted the significance of the Magistrates Courts (Amendment) Act, 2026, saying the law would ease pressure on the High Court by increasing the pecuniary jurisdiction of Magistrates and Chief Magistrates, thereby enhancing access to justice for ordinary Ugandans.
However, she cautioned that the expanded jurisdiction comes with greater responsibility and urged Magistrates to uphold diligence, competence, fairness and integrity in handling more complex matters.
“Resist any form of influence, whether political, financial or social, and continue to deliver justice without fear or favour,” she said.
Lady Justice Abodo further urged judicial officers to prioritise wellness, noting that judicial work is mentally and emotionally demanding. She encouraged them to dedicate time to family, exercise, spiritual nourishment and rest.
Outgoing UJOA President, Lady Justice Kazaarwe, welcomed members to what she described as the second Annual General Meeting under her leadership and thanked members of her team for their support.
She said the Association’s work during her tenure was anchored on the three pillars of Professional Excellence, Unity and Compassion. A video presentation highlighting achievements under her leadership was played during the meeting.
Among the initiatives highlighted were the porridge project under the compassion pillar, corporate social responsibility activities, plans for an UJOA van, support from Rotary International, and efforts towards establishing a Rotary Club of the Judiciary.
Lady Justice Kazaarwe acknowledged challenges faced during her tenure, particularly concerns raised by some Magistrates regarding representation and service delivery. She, however, noted that the executive had consistently engaged Judiciary Top Management on those issues.
She congratulated the incoming Executive and encouraged unsuccessful candidates not to lose hope but to continue offering themselves for leadership opportunities in future.
The President-elect, HW Daphne Ayebare, accepted the mandate entrusted to her and pledged to work with all stakeholders while promoting unity among judicial officers.
The Chairperson of the UJOA Electoral Commission, Justice Vincent Mugabo, declared the newly elected executive led by HW Daphne Ayebare as President and HW Conrad Obol Oroya as Vice President.
Other members of the executive are HW Mallen Obizu, General Secretary; HW Wellbourne, Deputy General Secretary; HW Christine Turibamwe, Treasurer; HW Karim Kyembe, Deputy Treasurer; HW Lillian Mazimwe, Publicity Secretary; HW Abubaker Matanda, Vice Publicity Secretary; and HW Edith Tusabe, representing persons with disabilities.
Justice Mugabo also announced representatives to the Association from various levels of the Judiciary. They include Lady Justice Elizabeth Musoke as Judicial Service Commission Ex-officio
