Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa has expressed admiration for retired Supreme Court Judge George Kanyeihamba, acknowledging his profound impact on Uganda’s Judiciary and politics. Celebrating the 84-year-old judge’s accomplishments, Tayebwa highlighted Kanyeihamba’s significant role in shaping legal precedents and guiding scholars and practitioners in understanding Uganda’s legal system.
During a thanksgiving service at Namirembe Cathedral on December 31, 2023, Tayebwa credited Kanyeihamba for his landmark judgments, particularly mentioning the Tinyefuza case, which demonstrated the judge’s deep understanding and interpretation of the law. Tayebwa celebrated Kanyeihamba for providing a foundation that allows for amicable issue resolution in the country.
The service, organized by Kanyeihamba’s family and friends, featured former Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda and former Bishop of Namirembe Cathedral Wilberforce Luwalira. Tayebwa expressed gratitude for Kanyeihamba’s contribution to legal education, noting his influential role in Makerere Law School where referencing Kanyeihamba was integral to passing constitutional, administrative, and commercial law courses.
Kanyeihamba, in response, thanked his family, doctors, and God for preserving his life despite a prolonged illness that has limited his mobility. He expressed appreciation for the medical professionals who played a crucial role in his well-being.
Rugunda acknowledged Kanyeihamba’s pivotal role in drafting Uganda’s 1985 Constitution during his chairmanship of the Legal Committee of the Constituent Assembly. Additionally, Rugunda praised Kanyeihamba for supporting Kabale University during its early challenges, emphasizing the judge’s commitment to community development.
Bishop Luwalira, in his sermon, emphasized the value of thanksgiving as more than a ceremony, describing it as a remedy for anxiety and stress. He highlighted the significance of focusing on gratitude, which shifts attention from troubling circumstances to God, fostering peace.
