Dr. Flavian Zeija has officially been sworn in as Uganda’s new Chief Justice, taking over from Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo who retired after attaining the constitutional retirement age.
The swearing-in ceremony was held at President Yoweri Museveni’s country home in Kisozi, Kiruhura District, and was attended by senior government officials, judicial officers, and members of the legal fraternity.
In his remarks, Dr. Zeija expressed gratitude to President Museveni for the confidence and trust placed in him, describing the appointment as a major milestone in his judicial career.
“This appointment marks my fourth presidential appointment within the Judiciary, and I remain deeply grateful for the continued trust and confidence,” Zeija said. 
Dr. Zeija takes over from Justice Owiny-Dollo, who retired after reaching 70 years, the mandatory retirement age for Supreme Court justices under the Constitution.
Owiny-Dollo had served as Chief Justice since 2020 and is credited with championing judicial reforms, promoting alternative dispute resolution, and advocating for speedy disposal of cases.
Before his elevation, Dr. Zeija served as the Deputy Chief Justice, having earlier been appointed Principal Judge and previously serving as a High Court judge.
His rise through the ranks makes him one of the most experienced judicial administrators in the country.
In his acceptance, Zeija pledged to uphold judicial independence, strengthen integrity within the courts, and improve access to justice for all Ugandans.
His appointment comes at a time when the Judiciary is under growing pressure to reduce case backlog, fight corruption within the justice system, and restore public confidence in the courts.
With his swearing-in, Dr. Zeija becomes the 15th Chief Justice of Uganda, ushering in a new chapter for the country’s highest judicial office following the exit of Owiny-Dollo.
