Chief Justice, Law Society sign anti-corruption declaration

The chief Justice Bart Katureebe and the Uganda Law Society (ULS) have signed a new anti-Corruption declaration, unifying the judges and lawyers in the fight against corruption.

"I hate and despise corruption and all that's associated with it," Katureebe said while signing the International Bar Association (IBA) Compact against eradicating judicial corruption. After Ghana, Uganda becomes the second country in Africa to launch the compact.

The compact, according to Francis Gimara the president ULS, is premised on adherence to the maintenance and protection of the rule of law.

It observes the need for strict observance of fundamental principles of ethics and integrity in the practice of law.

The declaration recognizes that any form of corruption severely undermines the effectiveness and legitimacy of the judicial process and the administration of justice.

It accepts that the judiciary must remain independent and free from all forms of undue influence and interference.

It acknowledges that eradicating judicial corruption is critical to fighting corruption elsewhere in government.

The declaration was signed by Katureebe during the ULS pre-annual general meeting conference at Imperial Resort Beach Hotel in Entebbe.

Others who signed include, the Inspector General of Government, Justice Irene Mulyagonja, Attorney General, William Byaruhanga (on the side of government), the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Mike Chibita and the Chief Registrar of Courts, Paul Gadenya.

In his remarks, Katureebe asked lawyers to join forces with him and expose every judicial officer found engaging in acts of corruption.

Justice Remy Kasule, the head of the Law Council said that parliament should, before judicial appointments inquire from the Judicial Service Commission whether they recommended the person for nominations by the president, such that the right people are appointed.

He said that there should also be an induction program for new judicial officers to have the values of honesty and integrity instilled in them.

Mulyagonja said that willful conduct of judicial officers is punished to send a warning to others intending to be corrupt that the vice is unacceptable.