Museveni appoints new top judiciary officials days after swearing-in
By Kenneth Mwenda, May 14, 2026President Yoweri Museveni has appointed new senior officials in Uganda’s judiciary just days after taking the oath of office for another five-year term, signalling early administrative changes in his new government.
The Presidential Press Unit (PPU) announced on Thursday, May 14, 2026, that Museveni has named Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi as the new Deputy Chief Justice. The appointment has already been forwarded to Parliament for approval in line with constitutional procedure.
The President also appointed Her Worship Agnes Alum as the new Chief Registrar, a key administrative position in the judiciary that oversees court operations and records.
“The Presidential Press Unit 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,” the statement said. It added that the Chief Registrar appointment also takes immediate effect, pending formal processes.
The changes come shortly after Museveni was sworn in at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala, extending his rule after what he described as a mandate to push national development. The ceremony attracted regional leaders and international guests, with heavy security deployed across the capital.
Focus on economic growth
Museveni, 81, has remained in power since 1986. During his inauguration address, he urged Ugandans to focus on production and economic growth.
“There should be no more sleep for all Ugandans,” he said, calling for increased effort in wealth creation and job development.
He also defended his long stay in office, pointing to what he described as progress in stability and infrastructure over the past four decades. His government says the new term will continue focusing on economic expansion, including planned oil production.
The latest appointments signal an early focus on the justice system, which plays a key role in electoral disputes, governance issues and constitutional interpretation. The Deputy Chief Justice position is among the highest in Uganda’s judiciary, second only to the Chief Justice.
The appointment of Justice Kawumi now awaits parliamentary scrutiny, a step required before confirmation. Agnes Alum’s role as Chief Registrar places her at the centre of judicial administration, including court management and coordination of services across the country.
Museveni’s new term follows a contested election in January, which he won with more than 70 percent of the vote. Opposition leader Bobi Wine rejected the outcome, claiming irregularities. The Electoral Commission denied any wrongdoing and maintained the vote was free and fair.
The inauguration was marked by a military parade and an air display by Sukhoi fighter jets. His son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who heads the army, oversaw rehearsals for the ceremony.