President Museveni has urged Ugandans to exercise patience with court processes, noting that criminal investigations and evidence collection often take years before justice can be delivered.
In a message delivered by Chief Justice Flavian Zeija during the 8th Joan Kagezi Memorial Lecture in Kampala, Museveni referenced the murder case of Joan Kagezi, which secured its first conviction nearly a decade after her assassination in 2015.
“Wanainchi become inquisitive and ask why investigations take time, but serious criminal investigations take time. You don’t wake up and manufacture evidence. You need intelligence and patience, and eventually the truth comes out,” the President said in his message.
Zeija, who represented the President at the event, emphasized that prosecution work is a complex process that requires time, professionalism, and careful handling of evidence.
He remarked that prosecution is “not as easy as roasting maize,” urging the public to appreciate the lengthy procedures involved in the administration of justice.
Museveni also commended the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for consistently organizing the annual memorial lecture in honour of Kagezi and urged prosecutors to remain prepared to tackle emerging crimes such as cybercrime, terrorism financing, and organized crime.
“Criminals are also changing their approach. In the past, they used pangas and guns; they have now started using computers. Some sit outside Uganda and steal from nationals electronically. Therefore, prosecutors must not only understand laws and courtrooms, but also cyber investigations, terrorism financing, and organized crime,” the President's message stated.
At the same event, Director of Public Prosecutions Jane Frances Abodo called for improved welfare for retired prosecutors, noting that while the welfare of serving prosecutors has improved over the years, many retired officers continue to struggle financially.
Abodo said several retired prosecutors are living in poverty despite dedicating many years of service to Uganda’s justice system.
She, however, commended the government for improving the remuneration and working conditions of serving prosecutors, noting that many are now better able to sustain their livelihoods.
Director of Public Prosecutions Lino Anguzu also updated participants on the progress of the Joan Kagezi murder trial, revealing that one suspect has already been convicted while five others remain on trial in connection with the killing.
Kagezi’s children, who attended the memorial lecture, praised their late mother’s courage, integrity, and dedication to justice. They called for more fearless and principled officers within Uganda’s justice system.
In May 2025, Daniel Kisekka was sentenced to 35 years in prison after pleading guilty to participating in Kagezi’s murder. Other suspects still facing trial include former senior police officer Nixon Agasirwe and several alleged accomplices.
The annual Joan Kagezi Memorial Lecture brings together judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement agencies, legal practitioners, and development partners to reflect on the pursuit of justice and the evolving challenges facing criminal prosecution in Uganda.
