Africa-Press – Uganda. The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on Ugandans to uphold justice, fairness, and inclusive development across political, religious, and tribal lines.
He made the remarks on Monday during the funeral service of retired Supreme Court Judge Prof. George Wilson Kanyeihamba, held at All Saints Cathedral in Kampala.
Archbishop Kaziimba hailed the late jurist as a man of integrity, who championed equal treatment for all Ugandans regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation.
“In our differences of religion, tribe, or political parties, we must still ask: ‘What can I do for my people? What can I do for my country?’” said Kaziimba. “Because God, the creator of all tribes, will judge us equally. He is the God of justice.”
The Archbishop used the moment to reflect on themes of national unity and fairness, saying these were ideals Kanyeihamba upheld both inside and outside the courtroom.
He also praised Justice Kanyeihamba’s dedication to education, noting that he mobilized resources to support learners from primary school to university for over two decades, and championed infrastructure development in schools and public institutions.
“He sponsored many students for more than 25 years. One of the schools he supported now bears his name,” Kaziimba said.
Touching on gender advocacy, the Archbishop urged for balanced empowerment of both girls and boys. While commending efforts toward uplifting the girl child, he warned against neglecting boys, saying it could contribute to domestic violence in the future.
“If we only empower girls and leave the boys behind, we may be unknowingly creating the very domestic violence we are trying to stop. As we advocate for the girl child, let’s not forget the boy child,” he emphasized.
In a sermon-style reflection, Kaziimba drew parallels between Uganda’s legal system and divine justice, reminding mourners of God’s ultimate authority.
“I have read many court rulings. I like how justice is administered evidence is tested, cases are managed, and fairness is upheld,” he said.
“But above all these courts, God remains the ultimate judge.”
Justice Kanyeihamba, a distinguished constitutional scholar and fearless legal mind, served on Uganda’s Supreme Court and as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. He died on July 15 at Nakasero Hospital at the age of 85.
His funeral attracted a cross-section of dignitaries including religious leaders, legal professionals, government officials, and hundreds of mourners who lauded his unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi praised the late judge for his role in drafting Uganda’s 1995 Constitution, noting that Kanyeihamba remained disheartened by how the constitution was being undermined.
“He will be remembered for drafting the Constitution,” Ssenyonyi said. “Until his death, he was dismayed by how it kept being torn apart.”
According to the official burial program released by the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, Justice Kanyeihamba will be laid to rest on Monday, July 29, at his home in Buziga, Makindye Division, Kampala.
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