In a show of solidarity and determination, Uganda’s legal community came together at the New Law Year opening in Kampala to confront the growing menace of transnational crime. President Museveni’s impassioned plea for greater vigilance and cooperation resonated deeply, as judicial officers, law enforcement agencies, and legal professionals pledged to work together to combat this burgeoning threat.

Vice President Jessica Alupo, delivering the President’s message, underscored the importance of staying ahead of the curve in addressing modern criminal activities such as money laundering and terrorism financing. In an increasingly interconnected world, she stressed, the legal fraternity must adapt its strategies and tactics to effectively counter the evolving tactics of criminal syndicates.

Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the judiciary’s crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice for all citizens. By embracing innovation and modernization, he asserted, Uganda’s legal system can become a bulwark against the forces of crime and corruption that threaten to undermine the nation’s stability and prosperity.

However, Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo also acknowledged the challenges facing Uganda’s legal system, including resource constraints and institutional bottlenecks. Despite these obstacles, he expressed confidence in the resilience of the legal community, calling for greater collaboration and cooperation to overcome these challenges and advance the cause of justice.

Bernard Oundo, President of the Uganda Law Society, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of collective action in promoting accountability and safeguarding the rights of all citizens. By working together with civil society organizations and other stakeholders, he asserted, the legal profession can play a transformative role in shaping Uganda’s future for the better.

As Uganda stands at a critical juncture in its history, the words of President Museveni and other key figures in the legal community serve as a rallying cry for unity and resolve. By standing together against the scourge of transnational crime, Uganda’s legal fraternity can build a safer, more prosperous future for all its citizens.