Justice (rtd.) Prof. George Kanyeihamba, a renowned jurist and public servant, passes away
He was a former Supreme Court Judge, renowned academic, and a pivotal figure in Uganda's legal and constitutional development.
Uganda mourns the passing of a distinguished legal luminary and dedicated public servant, Justice (rtd.) Prof. George Kanyeihamba, who has passed away. He was a former Supreme Court Judge, renowned academic, and a pivotal figure in Uganda’s legal and constitutional development.
Justice Kanyeihamba’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to justice and service to his nation. He served with distinction as a Supreme Court Judge from 1997 until his retirement in November 2009, contributing significantly to the country’s jurisprudence.
Before his esteemed judicial career, Justice Kanyeihamba played a critical role in shaping modern Uganda. He chaired the Legal Committee of the Constituent Assembly, which was instrumental in drafting the landmark 1995 Constitution, a foundational document for the nation’s governance.
His extensive public service also included holding key ministerial portfolios as Minister of Commerce, Minister of Justice, and Attorney-General, as well as serving as a Member of Parliament.
A scholar of great repute, Justice Kanyeihamba held a PhD in Law from the University of Warwick, awarded in the 1970s, underscoring his profound legal scholarship. His alma mater further honored his contributions to the legal field by bestowing upon him an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) in 2008.
His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Laws from Portsmouth University, following studies at various institutions including Hamurwa Church School, Nyaruhanga Anglican Church Primary School, Nyakatare Church School, Kigezi High School, Busoga College Mwiri, and Norwich City College.
Born George Wilson Kanyeihamba on August 11, 1939, in Kinaba, Kinkizi District, Kigezi Region, he was the last-born of eleven children to Zakaliya Bafwokworora and Kyenda Malyamu Kyakundwa.
Justice (rtd.) Prof. George Kanyeihamba’s legacy of integrity, intellectual rigor, and tireless dedication to the rule of law will be profoundly missed by the legal fraternity, the academic community, and the people of Uganda. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the nation’s legal and political landscape.
