_{By Zaam Ssali and Jane Anyango}

Kampala, Nov. 20, 2025 – Justice Egonda urged Makerere University scholars to spearhead a thorough review of Uganda’s 1995 Constitution and to design a national scoreboard to evaluate constitutional office holders. He said academia—particularly the School of Law—should draft a model constitution to guide national discussions on governance and judicial independence.

Court of Appeal Judge, His Lordship Martin Stephen Egonda made the call delivering a keynote address at a conference to commemorate the World Philosophy Day at Makerere University on 19-20 November 2025.

Justice Egonda warned that Uganda’s constitutional order is deteriorating requiring urgent reforms, urging academia to take lead. He called for two major initiatives: a comprehensive review of the 1995 Constitution and the creation of a national performance scoreboard to evaluate the performance of constitutional officeholders. Egonda argued that universities have the expertise to guide constitutional reform, design a model constitution, and generate independent performance data to strengthen accountability.

He also called for clear, measurable indicators to assess judges’ and public officials’ performance, noting that current Judiciary reports lack qualitative depth. He advised that Universities can provide independent data and constitution-based metrics. He stressed that such a scoreboard would create awareness about compliance with constitutional obligations, fight abuse of public trust and defend the Constitution by promoting obedience to constitutional mandates. “To sum it up, it would be an act of exacting accountability from holders of constitutional and public offices,” he said.

Justice Egonda cited serious constitutional failures—especially within the Judiciary—highlighting extreme delays in criminal appeals where some inmates completed long sentences before their appeals were heard. He highlighted the systemic dysfunction in case management, unreliable digital judicial systems, leadership vacuums in the Judiciary.

Justice Egonda highlighted a recent judicial review in Kabale, where the Deputy Chief Justice held an open session with stakeholders. A representative from Ndorwa Main Prison reported that 20 inmates had waited months for High Court judgments, with no mechanism to address the delay. Initial checks of the judiciary’s computerized management system showed no pending judgments. However, after updating records following the prison’s submission, officials confirmed the existence of stalled criminal cases and pending judgments, particularly due to transfers of trial judges.

Panelists responded with broader reflections. Dr. Miria Matembe warned that Uganda now has a “constitution without constitutionalism,” arguing that power has been captured and constitutional safeguards eroded, including Parliament’s independence. She urged citizens to reclaim constitutional power, confront corruption, and defend truth even at personal cost.

Professor Chris Mbazira praised Egonda’s condor but emphasized that constitutional reforms alone are inadequate without accompanying political transformation. He said Uganda’s hybrid regime—where informal power overrides formal institutions—must be dismantled for true constitutionalism to take root.

Former Constituent Assembly delegate Hon. Loice Bwambale urged Ugandans, especially youth, to take responsibility for preserving constitutional gains and addressing unresolved issues such as regional representation and land questions. She called for election of principled leaders, civic engagement, and careful review of entrenched constitutional provisions tied to public participation.

Overall, the plenary discussions underscored that restoring constitutionalism in Uganda requires institutional accountability, political reform, citizen activism, and renewed respect for constitutional principles. Specific issues raised during discussion included:

• Accountability necessary for elective positions and offices
• Introduction of term limits for all elective positions
• Ugandans have been conditioned to accept a mediocre leadership model
• The elites including researchers and academia advised to inspire the general population to get involved in constitutionalism
• Sensitization and civic education for members requiring more information. It was noted some
• members have given up hope for any change
• A National dialogue for all Ugandans. The recommendations be cascaded to the population
• and for appreciation by the population who think constitutionalism doesn’t concern them
• Reflect the disintegration of our neighbours like Sudan for lessons to Ugandans
• Commitment by the leaders to hand over power peacefully
• Each of us ask what role everyone can play

The 2025 World Philosophy Day conference at Makerere University concluded with strong calls for renewed constitutional reflection, ethical leadership, and civic responsibility as Uganda marks 30 years of the 1995 Constitution.

Delivering closing remarks, UNATCOM’ Dr. Pauline Achola, emphasized philosophy’s role in promoting peace, ethical reasoning, and sustainable development. She urged continued examination of the constitution’s gains and gaps and reaffirmed UNESCO’s commitment to
supporting commemoration of the World Philosophy Day dialogue in Uganda.

In his speech, Bernard Nkone of Konrad Adenauer Stiftung highlighted major achievements under the 1995 Constitution—human rights, separation of powers, gender equality, and civic participation—while warning that challenges such as corruption, political polarization, and limited access to justice persist. He stressed empowering youth to protect democratic values.

Prof. Robert Wamala – Director Research and Innovations, represented Prof. Sarah Ssali -Deputy Vice Chancellor/Academic Affairs Makerere University. Reading her speech, he underscored philosophy’s importance in fostering ethical leadership and active citizenship. He urged participants to translate conference discussions into policy influence and civic engagement.

The conference ended with recognition of student representatives from the Makerere University Philosophers’ Society, emphasizing youth contribution in national dialogue.

Zaam Ssali and Jane Anyango are Communication Officers for School of Law & CHUSS respectively.

Makerere University School of Law (SoL) held its orientation meeting for the Master of Laws (LLM) 1^st year students on the 13^th August 2025 in the SoL Auditorium. SoL leadership, Department of Academic Registrar (AR) and Makerere University Directorate of Graduate Training facilitated the meeting.

In his address to the students, Dr. Busingye Kabumba – Head, Human Rights and Peace Centre and SoL Graduate Studies Coordinator welcomed the LLM students to Makerere University and SoL. “I wish to remind you that one plus one equals two, the students must do their bit and we as staff pledge to do our bit. I encourage you to attend classes, handle all assignments on time, and it is my hope that you comply with the University policies”, Dr Busingye Kabumba advised.

He implored the students to hit the ground running and be committed to their studies. “SoL has organised that proposal defence is in year one – semester two so that students have working drafts by year two, this will allow you to finish the programme on time”, he said. Dr. Busingye Kabumba referenced a precedent where a student completed his LLM within one and half years at SoL, which showed that completion in less than two years is possible with commitment.

“It is my honour and pleasure to welcome you through the gates of Makerere; I also congratulate you on your admission to LLM, we had so many applicants but we only admitted 124. You don’t choose Makerere but she chooses you. You are lucky to be taught by the legal brains at SoL, all recognized academics in their areas of specialty”, Dr. Zahara Nampewo – Deputy Dean, SoL said in her welcome remarks.

Dr. Nampewo advised the students thus, “This is a 2-year (4 semester) study programme, consider this to be day one of your new story book, you have been admitted in 2025 and it is our hope that you will be graduating in January 2028”.

She further added, “You have your reasons as to why you are enrolling for the LLM and which you wish to fulfill, I therefore take this opportunity to underscore the importance of hard work, determination and resilience. Take the LLM as a full-time engagement, allow us to teach you and help us to help you”.

Dr. Nampewo encouraged the students to partake in the various opportunities at SoL besides academics, specifically highlighting the summer schools that students have attended in Europe with support from partners. She also told the students to note that Makerere is a sexual harassment free institution; exclusivity, equal opportunity, gender balance are core values of the University.

Highlighting that SoL has an open-door policy, students were advised to talk to their lecturers for support when challenges arise. “Nothing is insurmountable, every journey starts with a small step”, Dr. Nampewo said.

In his remarks, the Dean-SoL, Assoc. Professor Ronald Naluwairo welcomed the LLM students to Makerere University and congratulated them on the admission to our distinguished LLM programme. He said, “LLM is quiet demanding but doable, a level of commitment and resilience is required. I urge you to attend all your classes”.

Assoc. Professor Naluwairo told the students, regardless of whichever law school you attended for your Bachelor of Laws (LLB), you are now at a Centre of Legal Excellence, work and support one another. “On behalf of SoL, we commit total support to ensure that you succeed in your studies, I also urge you to take responsibility, read and be willing to work”, the Dean advised.

Dr. Mike Barongo, Deputy Registrar in Charge of ICT Division, represented the Academic Registrar’ Department; welcoming the students, he said “this is a great place to be, a premier law school”. He explained to the students what the role of the AR’ Department entails, including application, admission, registration, custody of student records and graduation.

Dr. Barongo highlighted key tasks for new students: activation of students portal, enrolling for recognition as a student, generating payment reference numbers. He advised that where challenges are experienced, the School Registrars are available for support as well as a Support Centre at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) by Makerere University Directorate of ICT.

“Keep your eyes on the goal of why you are here, leave with a master’s degree”, Mr. Laban Lwasa, SoL Registrar told the students. He congratulated them on their excellent performance which earned them a place on the LLM programme. Elucidating the role of the registrar, he said, “We receive you, track your performance, walk with you till graduation and issue your transcript after graduation”. He explained that until they enroll, they aren’t students and they should do so as soon as possible. Mr. Lwasa also clarified the documents required for registration including full admission letter, payment receipts, LLB transcript and certificate, birth certificate and valid ID.

Dr. Dan Ngabirano and Dr. Diana Ahumuza Ateenyi, both faculty at SoL also spoke to the LLM students. They reiterated the message of hard work, commitment, support of others and resilience. They also encouraged the students to understand the elective course-units available to them and the faculty specialisations which will inform their choice of dissertation supervisors.

In his address to the students, Assoc. Professor Julius Kikooma, Director-Graduate Training welcomed scholars to Makerere University, a place of knowledge, discovery and transformation. He said, “we are thrilled to have you join our vibrant and dynamic community of scholars at one of Africa’s leading research universities. Your decision to pursue graduate studies here reflects your courage to lead, your passion to learn, and your desire to contribute meaningfully to your field and to society at large”.

Assoc. Professor Kikoma reminded the students that graduate studies are more than a degree, it is a lifeblood of a nation’s vitality and driver of its socio-economic transformation. He added, “graduate research is a strategic national asset, not just about producing knowledge for knowledge’s sake but generating insights, innovations and solutions that: respond to pressing societal challenges and inform evidence-based policy”.

He encouraged the students that as they make choices for their dissertations to select topics that will contribute to Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the forthcoming National Development Plan IV.

A question-and-answer session followed where students sought clarifications on presentations from the various speakers.

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Orientation for the law freshmen and women was held on the 7^th-8^th August 2025 with guest speakers including: Hon. Medard Lubega Sseggona (Senior Partner-Lukwago and Co. Advocates; Member of Parliament for Busiro County East, Dr. Patricia Acan Okiria (Deputy Inspector General of Government) and Hon. Lady Justice Sarah Langa-Siu (Judge of the High Court of Uganda) who was the Chief Guest.

The freshers were advised to excel in whatever they do and avoid mediocrity. Priority setting, time-keeping and making the right choices were highlighted as key issues to ensure success while at Law School. This is the 57^th Bachelor of Laws (LLB) class since the Makerere University School of Law (SoL) began in 1968.

In his address to the new students, the Dean – Assoc. Professor Ronald Naluwairo welcomed them to Makerere University and School of Law. He said, “Be proud to be here among the select 280 students admitted for the Bachelor of Laws out of over 2600 applicants. You are at the best law school with faculty prepared to teach you and multiple resources available to you, utilise them”.

Assoc. Professor Naluwairo advised the students that study of the law is laborious; therefore to excel one must remain disciplined, focus on studies, attend classes and do assignments on time. He cautioned the Freshers to avoid vices like excessive use of social media, substance (alcohol & drugs) abuse, addiction to smartphones and sports betting. He said, “These are distractions which may lead to failure and eventually dismissal from the university”.

The Dean welcomed the guest speakers who are all alumni of SoL for making the time to attend the orientation to inspire, guide and advise the freshers on excelling through Law School.

In his speech to the law freshmen and women, Hon. Medard Lubega Sseggona said, “It is an incredible honour to be back where my journey began in 1997, testament to what this University can make you. Law School is not about cramming and academic excellence doesn’t come by accident. One must create a structure/study routine and stick to it; mentorship from senior colleagues and lecturers is important; and while colleagues, mentors and lecturers will support you, this is your journey and you must take responsibility and do the work to succeed”. He congratulated Makerere University on the new School of Law Building which he said will improve the ambience for the students.

On strategy on how to ace law school, he advised students to create case summaries, read ahead, read law books not pamphlets, be participatory in class and discuss with colleagues. “Treat law as a full-time job, employed as full-time students” he added. Highlighting the various opportunities for a law graduate, he explained that a good degree will open doors and several paths including private practice, corporate organisations, human rights and legal aid, government departments and agencies, research and academics, politics and policy, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution among others.

“Challenges exist as well like academic pressures to study, many have passed and so will you; laziness and poor time keeping. Stay focused, avoid distractions, build a reputation through honesty and continue professional development even when you complete your bachelor’s degree” Hon Sseggona further advised.

In conclusion, Hon. Sseggona implored the students to be curious, be kind through lifting others, share information and choose the right friends.

In his remarks to the law freshmen and women, Mr. Okuku Gordon Phillip – SoL Guild Council Chairperson and President – Makerere Law Society welcomed the students to the School. He said, “You have made it to SoL, a premier law school on the continent. This is an institution with a legacy that has produced judges and outstanding legal practitioners, people who have framed the legal and policy framework of the country and beyond”.

Okuku reminded the students that opportunities are many as long as they make the right choices. “Joining Makerere is an achievement but remember your work lies ahead”, he said. It is important that you remain accountable and have integrity in all that you do and respect the tireless work of the academic staff who are here to support you, he further advised.

“This place will model you; challenge yourself to participate in the various activities available to you and may this journey prepare you to change the world”, Okuku said.

“Lectures are a full-time requirement and should be attended fully. In the 7^th week, you will be tested for coursework which is 40% of your total mark”, Dr. Zahara Nampewo – Deputy Dean, SoL pointed out to the students. She guided the students to read, use the resources available to them and cautioned them against using artificial intelligence because plagiarism tests are conducted on their work. She further reminded the students that academics has no shortcuts.

“Distinguish yourself, be mindful of your social media footprint and self-presentation. Also remember today is the first day of your new book, story about your future”, Dr. Nampewo urged.

Quoting C.S. Lewis, “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria encouraged the students to carry a mind-set of integrity throughout their legal education and future careers. She advised the students to desist from arrogance but be confident, work hard remain determined and fear God.

In her talk to the students, Hon. Sarah Langa-Siu advised the students to be thankful of being where they are. “Always strive to excel, avoid mediocrity, have a priority list and remember the sacrifices of your parents and the pain they will suffer if you don’t complete your studies”, she guided.

Lady Justice Langa-Siu highlighted the following tips:

• Pursue a good degree ( don’t get pass degrees)
• Enjoy your youth but remain responsible and organised
• Cultivate a positive brand
• Seek mentorship but be teachable
• Visualise your future and work to get there
• Have a positive can-do attitude

“There is a campus buffet for you to survive university, you have access to a wide range of friends including good and bad. Keep your eyes, ears open to discern and judge wisely; don’t lose focus; do the right thing at the right time; choose the right role models; avoid opportunities for quick money, HIV, STIs and unwanted pregnancies”, Justice Langa-Siu tipped.

Quoting Psalm 90:2, the judge reminded the students to remain focused on their studies and align God in their life. “Also remember that while this degree is yours, it has many stakeholders”, she added.

The Heads of Department and Faculty talked to students about life at campus and setting the pace for hard work in order to survive Law School.

Dr. Ivan Engoru, SoL Timetable and Examination Coordinator moved a vote of thanks to the guest speakers on behalf of the School.

Orientation continued on the day 2 with presentations from School Registrar, Finance Office, Guidance and Counselling, Library, Directorate of ICT, Safe Guarding Unit among others. A networking session with student leaders as well as associations and clubs was also held.

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