The people of the Kigezi region have welcomed with joy and pride the appointment of Dr Flavian Zeija as the new Chief Justice of Uganda.
Justice Flavian Zeija, who previously served as Deputy Chief Justice, was elevated by President Yoweri Museveni after the retirement of Chief Justice Owinyi Ddolo.
He has been widely praised by educationists, legal professionals, and leaders from his home region for his integrity, competence, and exemplary service to the judiciary.
At St. Mary’s College Rushoroza in Kabale District, where the new Chief Justice studied for six years and served as head boy, the news was received with excitement.
Ms Margret Twebaze, the Deputy Head Teacher of the school, told the Monitor on Saturday that the institution is immensely proud to see one of its Old Students rise to the highest judicial office in the country.
Twebaze who studied at the school during the same period as Justice Zeija, described him as a disciplined and principled student whose leadership qualities were evident even then. She noted that as head boy, he stressed academic excellence and discipline among students.
‘He was a student with integrity, well behaved and focused. During his leadership, he encouraged students to concentrate on academics and maintain discipline. He was a unique leader, and many of us knew he would become a great and prominent person,’ Ms Twebaze said. Mr Eric Sunday, the Deputy Town Clerk of Kabale Municipal Council and a resident of Rukiga District, also applauded the appointment, describing the Chief Justice as a highly respected judicial officer who rose through the ranks on merit.
‘I have known him since my early years. His strong voice and professionalism in the judiciary should be a guiding light to other officers. He should serve as an example to young lawyers in this country to uphold ethics and integrity,’ he said.
Mr Justus Muhangi of Muhangi and Partners Advocates in Kabale said Justice Flavian Zeija has been his professional role model. He added that Kigezi has consistently produced brilliant minds who have served the nation with distinction.
‘Kigezi has always produced outstanding leaders, and his appointment proves that once again. He will be a great asset to the judiciary and the country at large,’ he said.
As celebrations continue across the region, many see the appointment of Chief Justice Zeija not only as a personal achievement but also as a source of inspiration for young people, especially those aspiring for careers in law and public service.