Museveni Appoints Moses Kazibwe Kawumi New Deputy Chief Justice

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has appointed Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi as the new Deputy Chief Justice of Uganda, signaling a significant shift in leadership at the apex of the country’s judicial system. The appointment, announced by State House, also names Her Worship Agnes Alum as the new Chief Registrar of the Judiciary.

According to a statement issued by the Presidential Press Unit, the appointments are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the administration of justice in the country. The statement reads in full:

“The Presidential Press Unit (PPU) would like to inform the general public that the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has appointed Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi as the new Deputy Chief Justice,” noted State House in a statement.

“President Museveni has also appointed Her Worship, Agnes Alum as the new Chief Registrar.

The name of the new Deputy Chief Justice has been sent to Parliament, awaiting approval.”

The appointment of Justice Kazibwe Kawumi now awaits vetting and approval by Parliament, in line with constitutional requirements for senior judicial officers. If approved, he will assume one of the most influential positions in Uganda’s judiciary, serving as head of the Court of Appeal of Uganda, which also doubles as the Constitutional Court.

Justice Kazibwe Kawumi currently serves on the Court of Appeal, having risen through the ranks of the judiciary over several years. He has previously served as a High Court judge and held assignments as a resident judge in various circuits, where he handled a wide range of civil, criminal, and constitutional matters.

According to profiles published by Ugandan media outlets such as Daily Monitor and Chimpreports, Kazibwe Kawumi is regarded as a seasoned jurist with extensive experience in judicial administration and adjudication. His track record on the bench and familiarity with appellate jurisprudence are expected to shape his tenure in the new role.

The position of Deputy Chief Justice is central to the functioning of the judiciary. The office holder presides over the Court of Appeal and plays a key administrative and supervisory role in ensuring the efficient delivery of justice. The Deputy Chief Justice is second in command to the Chief Justice and is instrumental in shaping constitutional interpretation and legal precedent.

Justice Kazibwe Kawumi’s appointment comes at a time when the judiciary continues to grapple with case backlogs and growing public scrutiny over efficiency and access to justice. Legal observers say his leadership will be closely watched, particularly in advancing reforms and strengthening institutional performance.

Meanwhile, the appointment of Agnes Alum as Chief Registrar places her at the helm of the judiciary’s administrative arm. The Chief Registrar oversees court operations, including case management, human resources, and financial administration—functions critical to the day-to-day running of the courts.

The dual appointments underscore President Museveni’s continued role in shaping key state institutions, particularly the judiciary, which remains central to governance, the rule of law, and constitutional order.

Once Parliament approves the nomination, Justice Kazibwe Kawumi is expected to formally assume office and begin steering the Court of Appeal through its next phase, amid expectations for efficiency, independence, and judicial integrity.

Months ago, Museveni appointed a new chief justice. Read interesting facts about new chief justice Zeija who has risen quickly through the ranks HERE.