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Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera emphasized the importance of integrity within the Judiciary, warning against bribery and partiality among judicial officers. Speaking at a Judiciary Thanksgiving Service in Kampala, he highlighted the role of fair-minded judges in maintaining public trust and justice, and called for collaboration with the Church in promoting alternative dispute resolution methods.

Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera emphasized the critical importance of integrity within the Judiciary, warning that bribery among judicial officers undermines the administration of justice and erodes public trust in the legal system.

His remarks were delivered on August 13, 2024, during the Judiciary’s Thanksgiving Service at All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero, Kampala. The service was led by Bishop Andrew Williams from the Diocese of New England, USA.

Buteera, referencing a biblical verse, called for the appointment of fair-minded judicial officers nationwide. He cautioned against the corrupting influence of injustice, partiality, and bribery, which can ‘blind even the wise and honest, leading to unjust rulings.’

He quoted the following biblical verse: “Appoint judges and other officials in every town that the Lord your God gives you. These men are to judge the people impartially. They are not to be unjust or show partiality in their judgments. They are not to accept bribes, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and honest men and causes them to make wrong decisions. Always be fair and just so that you will occupy the land that the Lord your God is giving you and will continue to live there.”

Buteera underscored the importance of gratitude, citing Chronicles 16:34, which urges believers to give thanks to the Lord because He is good and His love is eternal.

He also referenced Exodus 18:21-23 to delineate the essential characteristics of judges, stressing that they should be God-fearing, trustworthy, fair, and impartial in their decision-making to uphold the integrity of the Judiciary.

Buteera highlighted the need for judicial officers to be incorruptible, as instructed in Deuteronomy 16:18-20, which warns against accepting bribes and calls for fairness in judgment.

He acknowledged the Church as a vital partner in the administration of justice, particularly in promoting alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods such as mediation and arbitration. Buteera invited religious leaders to actively engage in these efforts, noting that the Church shares a responsibility with the Judiciary to reconcile individuals in conflict.

He also cited Corinthians 6:1-7, which encourages Christians to resolve disputes within the community before seeking judicial intervention.

Additionally, Buteera highlighted the success of ADR initiatives, including the Case Settlement Week, during which 178 cases were resolved.

During the service, the Judiciary contributed Sh15.5 million towards the construction of the new All Saints Cathedral, with Court of Appeal Judge Geoffrey Kiryabwire spearheading the fundraising efforts. The event was attended by various judicial officers, including Justices of the Court of Appeal, High Court Judges, Registrars, Magistrates, and non-judicial staff.