Buganda Kingdom Premier Charles Peter Mayiga has eulogized retired Justice George Kanyeihamba as a person who lived by what he thought was right and condemned what he perceived as a wrong. Justice Kanyeihamba died today morning at Nakasero hospital in Kampala.
The former Supreme Court Judge was vocal against the atrocities committed by President Yoweri Museveni’s regime among others interfering with the independence of the Judiciary, political witch-hunt, human rights violations including enormous attacks on journalists.
Mayiga said Justice Kanyeihamba’s demised had been received with sadness: “The news of the death of former Supreme Court Judge, Justice George Kanyeihamba, has been received with sadness. As an academic, a political actor, minister, judge and private citizen, he never wavered from his ideals.”
Mayiga also recognized Justice Kanyeihamba’s dedication to the Kabaka of Buganda as his subjected and sent condolences to his family: ” and He had the courage to say what he knew to be right or what he felt to be wrong. He was passionate about the rule of law, and unity of Ugandans. He was a proud son of Kigezi, who referred to himself as a dedicated subject of the Kabaka of Buganda. My condolences to his family and friends.”
Leader of Opposition in Parliament (LOP) Joel Ssenyonyi, said whenever they visited Justice Kanyeihamba, a one hour visit would always end up lasting four hours. “He told us numerous stories about our Country’s history, and the many challenges he had to navigate as a judicial officer over the years, especially after he and 2 other Supreme Court justices ruled to annul the 2006 Presidential election due to rigging, bribery and intimidation of voters,” Ssenyonyi said.
Former LOP Winnie Kiiza, said Justice Kanyeihamba has been a true champion of democracy and human rights in Uganda. She added that with unwavering dedication, Kanyeihamba breathed life into the Constitution, making it a shield for the weak.
“His Court became a sanctuary where the downtrodden, especially activists, found hope. Even in retirement, his dedication to promoting justice and human dignity remained intact. He leaves behind a legacy of decisions grounded in law and marked by clarity, compassion and courage. His passing marks the end of a historic era and leaves a gap that will take us time to fill,” Kiiza said.