Chief Justice Emeritus Alfonse Chigamoyi Owiny-Dollo has reflected on his time at the helm of Uganda’s judiciary, emphasising responsibility over power and reaffirming the independence of the courts.
Owiny-Dollo was speaking during an evening discussion hosted on X Space that attracted senior and young lawyers, law students, and legal professionals, both physically and online.
The conversation, titled From the Bench to History: Lessons from the Chief Justice’s Tenure, was moderated by senior Kampala lawyer Elison Karuhanga under the Uganda Law Society’s Judicial Service Conversations.
The discussion, conducted in a question-and-answer format, explored key moments and principles that defined Owiny-Dollo’s tenure as Chief Justice. He stressed that the office is guided more by responsibility than authority.
“The Constitution gives the Chief Justice no powers, only responsibility. And when we understand that it is responsibility, we know the parameters,” Owiny-Dollo said.
Addressing public concerns about judicial independence, he assured participants that the judiciary operates without interference from the Executive.
“There is not a single day the President has called me to talk about a case. I can assure you the judiciary is independent,” he said.
Owiny-Dollo also clarified the limits of the Chief Justice’s authority, stressing that no judicial officer can be directed on how to decide a case.
“A Chief Justice has no powers to direct even a magistrate that your decision should go in a certain direction. That is criminal,” he noted.
Reflecting on achievements during his time on the bench, Owiny-Dollo pointed to the expansion of access to justice, including the establishment of courts in rural areas and the extension of judicial services closer to communities. He called on the Uganda Law Society to advocate for an increase in the number of judicial officers, urging Parliament to raise the number of judges to the statutory requirement of 150.
He also advised lawyers, particularly young practitioners, to place the law above politics and personal gain.
He urged them to focus on honesty, quality service to clients, and making a positive impact in their communities rather than prioritising profit.
Known for his love of music, Owiny-Dollo shared that Amazing Grace remains one of his favourite songs, describing it as a symbol of his appreciation for meaningful music beyond entertainment.
As Uganda’s 13th Chief Justice, Owiny-Dollo pledged to continue engaging with the legal community, stressing integrity, responsibility, and the enduring mission of the judiciary.