President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Sunday presided over the swearing-in of Uganda’s new Principal Judge, Hon. Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, at Mbale State Lodge.
Lady Justice Abodo is the first woman principal judge and has previously served as the Director of Public Prosecutions, a role she held until August this year when she was appointed by the President to her new position.
Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni said the arrival of a new generation of leaders offered hope for reform, as he presided over the swearing in of new Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, and several other justice officials.
“Therefore, the coming up of these young people, some of whom I know, is good, and Abodo has been in the DPP’s office doing good work, said M7.
Lady Justice Adobo began her legal career as a trainee state attorney, rising through the ranks at the DPP before being appointed a High Court Judge in February 2018.
For the past five years, leading up to her appointment as Uganda’s first-ever female Principal Judge, Lady Justice Abodo has served as the Director of Public Prosecutions.
During her time at the DPP office in various roles and ranks, she also led the plea bargaining programme, and headed up the Anti-Corruption Desk.
“Her rise from pupil state attorney to the third-highest judicial office reflects both excellence and resilience,” said the Talented Women Network.
“Her appointment not only breaks a long-standing barrier in Uganda’s judiciary but also highlights the growing recognition of women shaping justice and governance across Africa.”
The position of Principal Judge is the third highest in the hierarchy of Uganda’s judiciary, following the Chief Justice and Deputy Chief Justice. Lady Justice Adobo’s predecessor as Principal Judge, Justice Flavian Zeija, was elevated to the position of Deputy Chief Justice earlier this year.
“She promoted plea bargaining with passion, both as a judge and as DPP,” said Justice Zeija about Lady Justice Abodo’s background, while advising her to strengthen court inspections, maintain quarterly reviews of magistrate courts and support special courts for gender- based violence.
The ceremony was attended by the Attorney General, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka and the Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet, Ms. Lucy Nakyobe and other government officials.
Also sworn in were Hon. Lady Justice Aisha Naluzze as Inspector General of Government, her deputies Ms. Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe and Ms. Patricia Achan, as well as Mr. Lino Anguzu as Director of Public Prosecutions.
President Museveni congratulated the appointees, praising their youth, integrity, and professional background.(By PEACOCK KAWEESA & Agencies)
