Chief Justice Flavian Zeija has reappointed Justice Stephen Musota as Chief Inspector of Courts for a second three-year term, reaffirming the Judiciary’s confidence in his leadership of the Inspectorate of Courts.
In a statement dated March 9, 2026, the Judiciary said Justice Musota’s renewed term took effect on January 25, 2026.
The reappointment was made pursuant to Article 133(1)(b) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, Section 8(2), (3) and (4) of the Administration of the Judiciary Act, 2020, and Paragraph 8 of the Administration of the Judiciary (Inspectorate of Courts) Regulations, 2023.
“This reappointment reflects the Judiciary’s continued confidence in Justice Musota’s leadership and stewardship of the Inspectorate of Courts. During his previous tenure, the Inspectorate strengthened mechanisms that promote judicial accountability, discipline, and performance across all court levels,” the statement read.
Justice Musota was first appointed Chief Inspector of Courts on January 27, 2023.
His reappointment signals continuity in the Judiciary’s reform agenda aimed at strengthening oversight and improving service delivery within Uganda’s justice system.
“As Chief Inspector of Courts, Justice Musota has played a pivotal role in advancing transparency and responsiveness within the Judiciary. His experience and institutional knowledge will continue to guide the Inspectorate as it works to enhance public trust in the administration of justice,” the statement added.
The Inspectorate of Courts, operating under the Administration of the Judiciary Act, 2020 and the Administration of the Judiciary (Inspectorate of Courts) Regulations, SI 92 of 2023, is mandated to promote judicial integrity, accountability, discipline and professional standards across Uganda’s courts.
Through its oversight and investigative functions, the Inspectorate monitors the conduct and performance of judicial officers and court staff, and handles complaints related to delays, misconduct and inefficiency in the administration of justice.
Born in 1959, Justice Musota is one of Uganda’s most experienced judicial officers.
He studied law at Makerere University, graduating in 1982 with a Bachelor of Laws degree, before obtaining a Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre.
Justice Musota joined the Judiciary in 1984 as a Magistrate Grade One and steadily rose through the ranks, becoming Senior Principal Magistrate Grade One in 1992.
Over the years, he served in several key administrative and judicial roles including Chief Magistrate, Deputy Registrar and Registrar of the High Court.
In 2000, he was appointed Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, a position he held until 2004 when he was elevated to the High Court bench.
During his tenure at the High Court, he served as Head of the Civil Division and gained a strong reputation for his work in civil law adjudication.
Justice Musota was later appointed to the Court of Appeal on February 8, 2018 following vetting and approval by Parliament.
In November 2022, he was appointed to the Supreme Court by President Yoweri Museveni.
In January 2023, the Chief Justice appointed him Chief Inspector of Courts of Judicature, a role he continues to serve following his latest reappointment.