Uganda’s legal landscape just gained a powerhouse. Prof. Andrew Khaukha, a name synonymous with judicial reform and innovation, was recently sworn in as one of the 21 new High Court judges by President Museveni at State House, Entebbe.
This milestone marks the culmination of a career dedicated to transforming Uganda’s justice system.
But who is Prof. Khaukha, and why does his appointment matter? Let’s dive into the story of a man who has spent over two decades reshaping Uganda’s legal framework.
A Career Built on Legal Excellence
Prof. Andrew Khaukha isn’t just a judge; he’s a legal reformer, a policy architect, and a champion of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). His career spans more than 20 years, during which he has:
- Advised three Chief Justices: Benjamin Odoki, Bart Katureebe, and Alfonse Owiny-Dollo.
- Drafted key legal frameworks, including the Civil Procedure (Amendment) Rules and Plea Bargaining Guidelines.
- Spearheaded initiatives to reduce case backlogs and introduce uniform sentencing guidelines.
His work has been instrumental in driving efficiency and fairness within Uganda’s judiciary.
The Architect of Plea Bargaining in Uganda
One of Prof. Khaukha’s most significant contributions is the rollout of plea bargaining across Uganda’s criminal justice system.
This innovative approach has not only reduced case backlogs but also provided a faster, more efficient way to deliver justice.
In 2017, his efforts earned him the Person of the Year Award from the Global Justice Programme.
Professor Jim Gash, Director of the programme, praised Khaukha as the “hands-on person” behind the nationwide implementation of plea bargaining.
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A Global Advocate for Alternative Dispute Resolution
Prof. Khaukha’s expertise extends beyond Uganda’s borders. As the head of the Secretariat of the Africa Chief Justices ADR Forum, he coordinates ADR activities across the continent.
His work has positioned Uganda as a leader in promoting ADR, a cost-effective and time-saving alternative to traditional litigation.
His academic credentials further underscore his authority in this field. With a Master of Dispute Resolution from Pepperdine University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Legislative Drafting from the International Law Institute in Washington, D.C., Khaukha is a true global legal scholar.
From Advisor to Judge: A Natural Progression
Before his appointment as a High Court judge, Prof. Khaukha served as the Technical Advisor to the Judiciary. In this role, he provided critical guidance on judicial reforms, legislative drafting, and court administration.
His secondment from the Uganda Law Reform Commission was a testament to his unparalleled expertise.
President Museveni, during the swearing-in ceremony, urged the new judges to prioritize ADR—a field where Khaukha has already made monumental strides.
Beyond the Bench: Fighting Corruption and Shaping Policy
Prof. Khaukha’s influence isn’t confined to the courtroom. For seven years, he served as a Legal Advisor to President Museveni on anti-corruption matters.
His contributions in this role have been pivotal in promoting good governance and upholding the rule of law.
Additionally, he has shared his knowledge as an Adjunct Professor at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, further cementing his reputation as a global legal thought leader.
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A Legacy of Innovation and Reform
Prof. Khaukha’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication and innovation.
From drafting groundbreaking legal frameworks to championing ADR, his work has left an indelible mark on Uganda’s judiciary.
As he takes on his new role as a High Court judge, one thing is clear: Prof. Andrew Khaukha is not just a judge; he’s a reformer, a mentor, and a beacon of justice.
