More than 86 judicial officers and members of support staff have formally exited the Judiciary after reaching retirement, a move that is expected to create noticeable staffing gaps across courts nationwide. Those who retired include senior judges, magistrates, accountants, clerks, interpreters, drivers, process servers, office attendants, and other long-serving personnel who have collectively dedicated decades to the administration of justice.

The retirees were honored during the Judiciary’s Retirees’ Dinner held on Tuesday evening at the Supreme Court building in Kampala. The event brought together judicial leadership, serving officers, and former staff to reflect on years of public service and institutional growth.

Among the prominent retirees are former Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera, High Court Judge Lady Justice Alexandra Nkonge Rugadya, and Lady Justice Henrietta Wolayo, alongside several magistrates and administrative officers from different regions of the country. Speaking on behalf of the retired officers, Richard Buteera described the occasion as both a moment of appreciation and reflection on a lifetime of service.

He emphasized that the Judiciary functions through collective effort, noting that justice delivery relies not only on judges and magistrates but also on clerks, secretaries, drivers, cleaners, and other support staff. According to Buteera, the institution has evolved significantly over the years, particularly in professionalism and working conditions, allowing officers to retire with dignity and improved livelihoods. He encouraged his fellow retirees to continue upholding judicial values and to remain ambassadors of justice within their communities.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, Deputy Chief Justice Dr Flavian Zeija praised the retirees for their resilience, discipline, and dedication in the face of demanding workloads and constant public scrutiny. He urged them to prioritize their health, enjoy retirement, and maintain ties with the Judiciary by mentoring younger officers and sharing institutional knowledge. Dr Zeija stressed that retirement should be regarded as an honorable transition rather than the end of meaningful contribution.

Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo described the retiring officers as individuals who gave the most productive years of their lives to justice service. She observed that judicial decisions often affect individuals, families, and entire communities, and while such rulings may sometimes attract criticism, they remain essential for maintaining peace, fairness, and social order. Justice Abodo also recognized the indispensable contribution of support staff, stating that justice is achieved not only through judgments but also through everyday guidance and assistance offered to court users. She characterized retirement as a transition into legacy, adding that the Judiciary has been strengthened by the patience, discipline, and commitment of those retiring.

Permanent Secretary to the Judiciary Dr Pius Bigirimana thanked the retirees for their long-standing service and highlighted recent institutional milestones. These include the construction of the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court complex that hosted the dinner, improvements in case disposal rates, expanded court infrastructure, increased recruitment efforts, greater use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and continued digital transformation. He encouraged retirees to explore opportunities in consultancy, entrepreneurship, or community engagement, noting that their expertise remains valuable to national development.

Chief Registrar Pamela Lamunu outlined the career journeys of some senior retirees, including Richard Buteera, who previously served in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court before assuming the role of Deputy Chief Justice after rising through the ranks from pupil State Attorney. She also highlighted Lady Justice Alexandra Nkonge Rugadya, who served as a High Court Judge from 2013 until her retirement in 2024. Retirees received certificates and gifts in recognition of their distinguished careers and long service.

While celebrating the retirees’ contributions, Judiciary leaders acknowledged that the departure of more than 80 officers may intensify staffing shortages at a time when case backlogs remain a challenge. They underscored the urgency of accelerated recruitment to sustain access to justice across the country.