The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has dismissed two senior judicial officers from the Judiciary Service after finding them guilty of abuse of judicial authority and insubordination.
In its meetings held on January 9 and 21, 2025, the Commission concluded disciplinary proceedings against Her Worship Cissy Mudhasi Kawuma, Deputy Registrar, and Her Worship Ruth Nabaasa, Chief Magistrate, leading to their immediate dismissal under Article 148 of the Constitution.
Findings Against Deputy Registrar Cissy Mudhasi Kawuma
The Commission found that Kawuma unlawfully ordered the attachment of bank accounts belonging to Makerere University, the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council, and a private individual without following proper legal procedures.
Her actions, deemed judicial misconduct, violated the Uganda Judicial Code of Conduct and the Judicial Service Commission Regulations.
Additionally, Kawuma was found guilty of insubordination after defying instructions from the Chief Justice by proceeding with execution proceedings during the Covid-19 suspension period, a directive put in place to curb the spread of the virus.
Findings Against Chief Magistrate Ruth Nabaasa
Chief Magistrate Ruth Nabaasa was dismissed for abusing her judicial authority and disregarding a High Court directive.
The Commission determined that she failed to assess the value of properties in a case before her, ignoring a High Court judge’s order to determine whether the matter fell within her jurisdiction.
Her decision to proceed with the case outside her legal authority led to financial loss for the complainant, further violating judicial conduct regulations.
Judicial Accountability Reinforced
The Judicial Service Commission reaffirmed its commitment to upholding judicial integrity and accountability.
“The Commission will continue to maintain the rule of law by ensuring the highest level of judicial accountability,” the JSC stated.
The dismissal of the two judicial officers underscores the Commission’s stance on enforcing discipline within the Judiciary and preserving public trust in the legal system.
