Uganda’s Judicial Feast: Jane Frances Abodo Takes the High Court’s Chef’s Hat

Uganda’s judiciary has a new flavor of leadership. Jane Frances Abodo, celebrated for her fight against corruption and digital reforms, steps into the role of Principal Judge, taking the helm of the High Court after Justice Flavian Zeija’s promotion. Her appointment marks a historic moment in Uganda’s legal landscape

In a move that has stirred the legal kitchen, President Museveni has appointed Jane Frances Abodo, the former Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), as Uganda’s new Principal Judge. This appointment fills the vacancy left by Justice Flavian Zeija, who was promoted to Deputy Chief Justice earlier this year.

Justice Zeija’s promotion followed the retirement of Justice Richard Buteera in April 2025, who stepped down after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70 a classic recipe for change in Uganda’s judiciary. In the interim, Lady Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga acted as Principal Judge, keeping the judicial pot simmering until a permanent head was ready to take the helm.

Abodo’s promotion adds a flavorful new layer to Uganda’s legal table. Since taking over as DPP in 2020, she has been known for seasoning the prosecution service with vigorous anti-corruption efforts and digital reforms, bringing a modern taste to traditional procedures.

Now, as the administrative head of the High Court, Abodo will supervise judges and registrars across the country, ensuring the judicial kitchen runs smoothly. While the menu for her successor at the DPP remains undecided, one thing is clear: Uganda’s legal landscape is ready for this bold new entrée.