As the family, legal fraternity and the world at large continue to celebrate the life well lived by Prof. George Wilson Kanyeihamba, several prominent Ugandan leaders and public figures have taken to their social media to mourn the passing of retired Supreme Court Justice and constitutional scholar.
Among these figures is, Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, remembered her first encounter with Kanyeihamba in 1978 while in the UK, where he actively exposed human rights abuses under Idi Amin’s regime. She described him as “a steadfast voice for justice.”
Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro (Prime Minister) of Buganda, lauded the late professor for his fearless commitment to the rule of law and national unity. “He never wavered from his ideals and always had the courage to speak what he knew was right,” Mayiga noted.
Speaker of Parliamen of uganda t Anita Among also sent her condolences, praising Kanyeihamba’s dedication to national service through his roles in the cabinet, judiciary, and legal practice. “May the good Lord provide comfort to those grieving and grant his soul eternal rest,” she posted.
Musician and politician Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu and wife Babi itungo kyaguranyi , expressed their sorrow, describing Kanyeihamba as “a great pillar of constitutionalism in Uganda and Africa.” Thus, extending condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength during this difficult time.
Leader of Opposition in Parliament Joel Ssenyonyi recounted his visits to the professor, recalling long conversations filled with stories about Uganda’s history and judiciary struggles, particularly after the controversial 2006 presidential election ruling.
Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze simply but powerfully paid tribute to the justice’s lifelong pursuit of fairness: “Your pursuit for justice shall forever be remembered.”
Professor George W. Kanyeihamba, a respected academic, author, and former Supreme Court judge, passed away this week at the age of 85. He will be remembered as one of Uganda’s most principled legal minds and defenders of justice.
By Happy Aijuka, Digitalk TV Intern.