Uganda’s Judiciary
This story has been under-reported in the press in the United States, but in Uganda there is an ongoing struggle for judicial independence in the wake of interference by the executive. AllAfrica.com has regular updates from a variety of news sources. It is a fascinating story and show what seems to be increasing conflict as judiciary bodies in different parts of Africa start to challenge over-arching executive or (often controlled) legislative power. In the face of very real consequences, these are brave and principled judges and lawyers and as the protests show, others are also taking their side. The backlashes may continue, but they are also a sign that some judiciaries are trying to make a stand in spite of stong pressures against them. Perhaps these are Marbury v. Madison moments all over, with perhaps even more at stake for the judges?
Andrew Giddings
April 4, 2007 @ 3:36 pm
Attached is an interesting opinion to the contrary from Patrick Lumumba, writing in The African Executive, arguing that increases in African judicial output has meant more of Africa being governed “by law” but still not “of law” since many judiciaries are politically controlled. But he does commend the strikes by Uganda’s judges and lawyers contesting the President’s interference.
Article:
http://www.africanexecutive.com/modules/magazine/articles.php?article=2204&magazine=116