Africa-Press – Uganda. Principal Chief Magistrate Julius Mutabazi has hailed the late Prof George Kanyeihamba as a towering figure in Uganda’s legal history, citing his unwavering commitment to constitutionalism and judicial independence.
Speaking from Kabale following news of Kanyeihamba’s passing, Mutabazi said the former Supreme Court justice had left an indelible legacy on Uganda’s legal and democratic institutions.
He particularly referenced Kanyeihamba’s role in the 2006 Supreme Court decision that exposed electoral irregularities in the presidential elections.
“Prof. Kanyeihamba stood out for his courage and intellectual consistency,” Mutabazi said. “His contribution to constitutional law was not just academic, but practical, bold, and principled.”
Kanyeihamba died at the age of 86 today, Monday, July 14 from a Kampala hospital where he had been admitted.
Beyond the 2006 ruling, Kanyeihamba was also known for an influential 1990s decision that declared a government security raid unconstitutional—at a time when judicial dissent was rare.
His judgments were often seen as a barometer of judicial courage in politically sensitive times.
The professor, who also served as Attorney General and held various cabinet and academic positions, was widely regarded as one of the country’s foremost constitutional thinkers.
His writings and judgments continue to be referenced in legal scholarship and advocacy.
“He taught us that the Constitution must not bend to the will of power,” Mutabazi said. “His passing is not only a loss to the judiciary, but to the conscience of the nation.”
Prof. Kanyeihamba’s legacy is expected to be honored formally by Uganda’s legal fraternity in the coming days.
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