Tensions flared in Parliament as lawmakers on the Legal Committee accused the Judiciary of discriminatory promotion practices that sideline experienced and long-serving judges in favor of newer, politically aligned appointees. The legislators warned that such bias threatens the integrity of the judicial system.
Erute South MP, Jonathan Odur, was the first to raise the concern, questioning the criteria used to promote and transfer judges. “There are judges who have been at the same station for years without promotion, yet they continue to serve diligently,” he said. His remarks were echoed by Busiro East MP, Medard Lubega, who challenged the Judiciary’s rationale: “If these senior judges are not competent, then why are they still on the payroll? If they are competent, why aren’t they promoted?”
The MPs cited examples such as Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, the most senior judge at the Court of Appeal, and the late Justice Vincent Kibuuka-Musoke, who passed away at age 71 without ever being promoted beyond the High Court. Justice David Kutosi Wangutusi was also mentioned among those overlooked.
In response, Judiciary Secretary Pius Bigirimana clarified that promotions are handled by the Judicial Service Commission, which assesses judicial performance and considers the availability of vacancies. He also hinted that some judges might have unresolved “issues” affecting their promotion prospects.
Despite the explanation, lawmakers insisted that transparency and fairness must guide judicial promotions to protect public confidence in the system.
