At a public forum held on Janan Luwum Day, the Chief Justice encouraged Ugandans to contemplate their collective duty in fostering and defining the nation’s future, while also reminding President Museveni that no individual or group possesses ownership of Uganda, regardless of their political allegiance, ethnicity, or social standing. “We collectively own this country. No one has more claim to it than anyone else,” Owiny-Dollo asserted.
Alfonse Owiny-Dollo highlighted that Uganda can only make progress when its citizens participate in sincere discussions and address their common history.
This statement follows President Museveni’s recent comments suggesting that judges are now swayed by external influences. It is important to note that tensions have appeared between the Executive branch of government and the Judiciary in recent days.
This conflict emerged after a Supreme Court ruling a few weeks ago that concluded the General Court Martial was not suitable for trying civilians. In response, Mr. Museveni criticized the ruling and stated that efforts would be made to reverse it.
Over the weekend, Museveni’s son, CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, claimed that the Supreme Court should issue him an apology.
“I want a written apology from the Supreme Court, for the judgement they made against UPDF and Uganda. If I don’t get that apology quickly other things will follow…”
Additionally, there seems to be increasing public pressure on the government regarding Dr. Kiiza Besigye’s case, which has led to the announcement that his matter is being moved to a civilian court.
