Uganda is grieving the loss of one of its most brilliant legal minds and defenders of justice—Justice Professor George William Kanyeihamba—who passed away early Monday morning at Nakasero Hospital in Kampala, following a long illness. He was in his early 80s. His death marks the end of a powerful chapter in Uganda’s legal and democratic journey.
Born in 1939 to a modest family, Prof. Kanyeihamba rose through the ranks to become a Supreme Court judge, legal scholar, and a passionate voice for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. He studied law in the United Kingdom and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Warwick. Despite opportunities to stay abroad, he returned to Uganda to serve his nation and help shape its legal future.
Prof. Kanyeihamba played a central role in drafting the 1995 Constitution of Uganda, considered by many to be the most inclusive and progressive in the country’s history. As chairperson of the Legal Committee in the Constituent Assembly, he helped guide Uganda through a defining moment of national rebuilding.
Appointed to the Supreme Court in 1997, he served until his retirement in 2009. One of his most defining moments came in 2006, when he was one of the few judges who boldly dissented in the presidential election petition, questioning the credibility of President Museveni’s re-election due to widespread irregularities. His stance stood as a powerful act of courage, showing his unwavering commitment to truth, even under pressure.
Even after leaving the bench, Justice Kanyeihamba remained vocal. He consistently defended judicial independence and criticized government interference. He strongly condemned the storming of the High Court by security forces to re-arrest suspects who had been granted bail—calling it a direct attack on the rule of law.
Kanyeihamba was not only a judge but also a teacher, mentor, and prolific author. He lectured at various universities and wrote extensively on constitutional law. His most famous book, “Constitutional and Political History of Uganda from 1894 to Present”, has educated and inspired many. In 2008, his alma mater—the University of Warwick—honored him with a Doctor of Laws degree for his outstanding work in promoting justice across Africa.
In recent months, his health declined, and after being in and out of hospital, he was admitted to Nakasero Hospital last week, where he passed away peacefully.
Tributes have poured in from across Uganda and beyond—from judges, lawyers, students, and political leaders. One former law clerk wrote, “He stood for truth when it was dangerous to do so.” A senior member of the judiciary described him as “a man of unmatched intellect, courage, and unwavering principle.”
Though Justice Kanyeihamba is gone, his legacy lives on. His fearless decisions, deep respect for justice, and firm belief in democratic values will continue to inspire future generations. Uganda has lost a legal titan, but his ideas and integrity remain deeply rooted in the nation’s legal system.
Rest well, Justice Kanyeihamba. Your voice may be silent, but your truth still speaks.
