Judiciary Kicks Off 2026 Law Year with Call for Professionalism and Innovation

The Judiciary has officially launched the 2026 Law Year, calling on legal practitioners to embrace professionalism, innovation, and creativity in addressing challenges within Uganda’s legal sector.

The event, held at the Court of Appeal in Kampala, brought together Vice President Jessica Alupo, Chief Justice Flavian Zeija, Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka, Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao, and other senior judicial and state officials.

In a message read by Vice President Alupo, President Yoweri Museveni underscored the critical role of the judiciary in delivering justice.

“The judiciary plays a big role in ensuring everyone gets justice. I advise all lawyers to act professionally, as their service is very important,” he said.

Alupo pledged to raise the judiciary’s needs with Cabinet and support its initiatives to the fullest extent.

Chief Justice Zeija outlined the judiciary’s priorities for the year, highlighting plans to increase court accessibility, establish a delivery unit, and conduct an independent court users survey.

He further announced the judiciary’s commitment to leveraging technology and artificial intelligence to transition toward paperless court systems.

“We will use technology and AI to make sure courts are paperless,” he declared.

Zeija also addressed the growing problem of misinformation targeting judges.

“I will not tolerate anyone who creates fake news against judges due to the desire for likes on social media. I will take action to protect my judges,” he warned, adding that judges will not be shielded if they act wrongly.

Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao praised Zeija’s leadership, emphasizing the importance of clear expectations.

“It’s better to tell people what you expect from them than blame them when they go wrong,” he said.

Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka reaffirmed the bar’s support for the judiciary.

“We will continue to support you as we have done previously,” he said, echoing a commitment to uphold the rule of law and strengthen Uganda’s legal system.

The launch of the 2026 Law Year signals a renewed push for professional conduct, accountability, and technological advancement across the judiciary, aiming to improve access to justice and reinforce public confidence in Uganda’s legal institutions.