Dr. Flavian Zeija swearing in at State House on Saturday January 24, 2026.
The President in the company of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataha Museveni, made the remarks while presiding over the swearing-in of Dr.Flavian Zeija as Chief Justice at his country home in Kisozi, Gomba District.
President Museveni said since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) came into power, leaders have been pursuing patriotism and transformation, thus enabling the Judiciary and the Executive to coexist and work harmoniously.
He commended the outgoing Chief Justice, His Lordship Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, for efforts to rationalise court operations and improve efficiency.
The President particularly welcomed the Judiciary’s focus on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), noting that it provides an opportunity to blend cultural justice systems with modern courts, easing case backlog and promoting reconciliation.
He also applauded Dr. Zeija for declaring zero tolerance to corruption, describing the vice as a major challenge undermining public trust in the justice system.
President Museveni said listening to public opinion and using the “intelligence of the people” was critical, noting that during his recent countrywide engagements, he prioritised hearing citizens’ views rather than campaigning.
In his remarks, Dr. Zeija said leadership in public service is demanding and credited his journey to God’s grace.
He thanked President Museveni for the continued trust placed in him, noting that this appointment marks his fourth presidential appointment within the Judiciary. Dr. Zeija outlined an ambitious reform agenda aimed at improving efficiency, accountability and access to justice.
He pledged to operationalize magistrates’ courts, enforce strict action against absenteeism and underperformance, and conduct independent assessments of court performance.
He further promised to strengthen ADR mechanisms, prioritise judicial officers’ wellbeing, and train judges in artificial intelligence to keep pace with global developments. He pledged to transform the Industrial Court, run paperless courts supported by functional laptops and reliable internet, and enforce zero tolerance to corruption throughout his tenure.
Before his appointment as Chief Justice, Dr. Zeija was serving as Deputy Chief Justice. He also served as the Principal Judge.
