Why Judicial Service Commission dismissed two senior officers

The Uganda Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has dismissed two senior judicial officers—Deputy Registrar of the High Court, Her Worship Cissy Mudhasi Kawuma, and Chief Magistrate, Her Worship Ruth Nabaasa—after finding them guilty of misconduct and insubordination. The decision followed disciplinary proceedings held on January 9 and 21, 2025.

According to the JSC, both officers violated the Uganda Judicial Code of Conduct and abused their judicial authority.

Mudhasi was found guilty of unlawfully ordering the attachment of bank accounts belonging to Makerere University, the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council, and a private individual without following proper legal procedures.

Additionally, she defied a directive from the Chief Justice by proceeding with execution orders during a COVID-19-related suspension period.

Meanwhile, Nabaasa was dismissed for overstepping her jurisdiction in a property valuation case. Despite a High Court Judge’s directive to assess the property’s value before handling the matter, she proceeded with the case, resulting in financial loss for the complainant. The JSC emphasized that her actions undermined judicial accountability and disregarded legal procedures.

In its statement, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and judicial integrity, warning that officers who breach ethical standards will face strict disciplinary action.

With their dismissal, both Mudhasi and Nabaasa forfeit all benefits, including their monthly salaries—estimated at Shs12 million for a registrar and Shs9.8 million for a chief magistrate.