The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has dismissed two judicial officers for misconduct and abuse of office. The dismissed officers are Her Worship Cissy Mudhasi Kawuma, Deputy Registrar, and Her Worship Ruth Nabaasa, Chief Magistrate.
Sources revealed that during meetings held on January 9 and February 2, 2025, the JSC concluded disciplinary proceedings against both Kawuma and Nabaasa. In line with its mandate under Article 148 of the Constitution, the Commission dismissed both officers from the Judiciary Service with immediate effect.
According to Maria Nabulya, Acting Senior Communication Officer at the JSC, Kawuma was found guilty of abusing her judicial authority.
She 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 were deemed judicial misconduct as they violated the Uganda Judicial Code of Conduct and the Judicial Service Commission Regulations. Additionally, she defied the Chief Justice’s instructions and proceeded with execution proceedings during a suspension period intended to curb the spread of Covid-19.” Nabulya explained.
On the other hand, Ruth Nabaasa, Chief Magistrate, was also found guilty of abusing her judicial authority and violating the Uganda Judicial Code of Conduct. She disregarded a High Court Judge’s directive to determine the value of disputed properties to assess whether the matter was within her jurisdiction.
“It was determined that she entertained a case outside her jurisdiction, contrary to the High Court’s order, leading to a loss for the complainant,” Nabulya stated.
The Judicial Service Commission emphasized that it remains committed to upholding the rule of law and maintaining the highest standards of judicial accountability.
