Writes Kyembe Karim (Magistrate Grade 1 – Pallisa Chief Magistrates Court & Publicity Secretary JUMA)
What a beautiful evening it was on Friday the 27th of Feb 2026 at the Judiciary Headquarters grounds—between the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court, right in front of the High Court where the Judiciary Muslim Association (JUMA) hosted Muslim and non-Muslim staff for the inaugural Iftar dinner.
Straight after the weekly Health Run in the parking area, dignitaries and colleagues began arriving in large numbers: the Inspector General of Government, Hon. Lady Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala; Haj Kaddunabi Lubega, Director of the Insurance Regulatory Authority; the Deputy Mufti; Ambassador Ssemuddu; Eng. Haj Badru Kiggundu (former Electoral Commission Chairman); and many others, from drivers, office supervisors, cleaners, and court clerks to Registrars and Magistrates of all ranks. Everyone gathered in the true spirit of Ramadan, brotherhood, and celebration no recounts needed.
The entire top leadership of the Judiciary graced the occasion: the Chief Justice Dr Flavian Zeija as Guest of Honour, the Permanent Secretary (Dr. Pius Bigirimana), Judges of the High Court, Supreme Court Justices, and the President of UJOA (HL Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya), who graciously gifted JUMA a beautiful cake.
A delightful surprise was how many invited guests honored the Muslim dress code. The Acting Chief Registrar, HW Pamela Lamunu Ochaya, looked radiant in hijab—earning the affectionate nickname “Hadija” for the evening! The Principal Judge, HL Jane Frances Abodo, arrived in full hijab with her signature hairstyle veiled, I must confess, I almost didn’t recognize her at first glance. The Registrar of the High Court, together with HW Chemeri Jessica, also arrived elegantly dressed in Islamic attire, as if ready for Eid prayers.
The speeches beautifully emphasized wellness, unity, and togetherness. The JUMA Sacco was officially launched, with clear explanations of Islamic banking principles truly, big things are happening for the Muslim community in the Judiciary.
Looking forward: the (Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges Conference) CMJA conference is scheduled for Kingston – Jamaica in September 2026, but first we have the (International Association of Women Judges) IAWJ conference in Abuja, Nigeria this year. What an exciting season ahead!
Wishing all our Muslim and non-Muslim colleagues a blessed Ramadan and a meaningful Lent. May God accept our prayers, fasting, and silent desires.
