By Executive Editor
Chief Justice, Alfonso Owiny-Dollo has revealed why he delayed early retirement for departed Justice of the Court of Appeal, Kenneth Kakuru.
“It is true that Justice Kakuru applied for early retirement. I informed the President he had applied for early retirement through me but I told him I had declined to send it to him. Why? Because I knew he was a workaholic and would die much sooner in retirement,” Dollo told mourners Thursday afternoon.
The Judiciary had convened a special Court of Appeal Session in honour of Justice Kakuru at Judiciary headquarters in Kampala. It is here that Dollo made his revelation.
“Together with the Permanent Secretary, we ensured that he got the best treatment both in Uganda and abroad.”
Kakuru died days ago in Nairobi.
According to Dollo’s Deputy, Richard Buteera, “The Late Justice Kenneth Kakuru exceeded his call of duty.”
Using his own money, Buteera added: “He bought shelves for the criminal registry at the court.”
“He bought trolleys to enable staff move bulk court documents to chambers and court. He carried no grudges, no I’ll feelings or malice. Justice Kakuru worked for the welfare of staff at the Court of Appeal,” Buteera said.
Principal Judge, Dr Flavian Zeija said Kakuru’s “passion for the rule of law, the love for Judiciary and the country was immense.”
“We will definitely miss him and his legacy will live on. Kakuru loved his work and died doing his work. And that is his accountability to the people of Uganda,” Dr. Zeija said.
Benjamin Kabiito, the Chairperson, Judicial Service Commission – JSC – said “Kakuru was fiercely independent but accountable and observed collegiality.”
JSC commends the service of Justice Kakuru and prays that the same is emulated, Kabiito added.
Kakuru’s body will be laid to rest this Saturday in Rwebishuri, Mbarara.
