KAMPALA – President Yoweri Museveni has appointed High Court Judge Douglas Karekona Singiza as the new chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), a key body responsible for recruiting and disciplining judicial officers.
Singiza, who replaces Justice Benjamin Isingoma Kabiito, brings extensive experience and academic qualifications to the role. Born in 1969 in Mitooma District, Singiza holds a Doctor of Laws (LLD) in Public Law, a Master of Laws (LLM) in Human Rights and Democratisation in Africa, and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Makerere University.
The appointment was communicated to the Speaker of Parliament through a letter dated February 25, 2025. Singiza’s new role is significant, as the JSC is a constitutional body established by Article 146 of the Constitution, responsible for recruiting judicial officers and handling disciplinary matters within the judiciary.
In addition to Singiza’s appointment, President Museveni has also appointed Justice Rosette Comfort Kania as the deputy chairperson of the Commission, replacing Justice Faith Mwondha.
Singiza’s appointment comes after he handled several high-profile cases, including the controversial habeas corpus application for opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye. Singiza dismissed Besigye’s application, stating that the matter had been overtaken by events since Besigye had been produced before a civilian court and charged with treason.
The Judicial Service Commission has nine officials when fully constituted. In January, five Commission officials left due to the end of their two-term tenure, creating a vacuum that President Museveni has started to fill.
