Justice and prosperity are intertwined – Museveni

KAMPALA, October 2, 2024 – President Yoweri Museveni urged judicial officers in Africa to dispense justice while recognising the vital link between prosperity and justice, emphasising that this connection is essential for making impactful decisions.

During his address to Chief Justices from Southern and Eastern Africa at the Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort and Conference Centre, Museveni stated that the interplay between economic prosperity and effective justice is crucial, particularly when the country’s economy is thriving.

He remarked, “Justice becomes more meaningful and impactful in countries with flourishing economies,” encouraging judicial officials to promote prosperity alongside justice. “It is easier to address issues of justice when the economy is growing and creating prosperity.”

While acknowledging that justice can be pursued even in conditions of poverty, Museveni noted that stability and economic growth significantly ease the process.

The Southern and Eastern Chief Justices’ Forum [SEACJF] Conference brings together Chief Justices and other judiciary officials to share experiences, insights, and reflections on new challenges and opportunities within justice systems. The conference, themed “Enhanced Access to Justice: Underscoring Reforms in African Judiciaries,” also featured several legal experts from across the continent.

Museveni emphasised the importance of promoting education to foster a society that understands justice, advocating for universal education. “Education leads to enlightenment. Many tensions in society stem from a lack of knowledge, superstition, and beliefs in witchcraft,” he stated.

The President cautioned the Chief Justices against repeating the mistakes of past African leaders, which have hindered the continent’s development. “Previous leaders focused on identity politics based on religion and tribe rather than economic interests, leaving many countries in turmoil,” he said, stressing the need to break that cycle in Africa.

Chief Justice of Uganda, Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, praised the Forum as an opportunity for insightful discussions that enable judicial officers to generate solutions to contemporary judicial challenges.

Justice Bheki Maphalala, Chief Justice of Eswatini and Chairperson of the SEACJF, commended African leaders for their efforts to uphold justice with minimal disruption.

Justice Mike Chibita, Chair of the organising committee, announced that Uganda had extended invitations to Chief Justices from non-member states, including South Sudan, Burundi, and Somalia, to observe the Forum and potentially join as members.

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