President Museveni Leads Tributes to Legal Luminary Prof. Kanyeihamba

Kampala, Uganda – President Yoweri Museveni led a solemn procession of dignitaries adn mourners at Nakasero Hospital on July 23, 2025, to pay his respects following the passing of Professor George Wilson Kanyeihamba. The esteemed legal scholar and influential figure in Uganda’s political arena succumbed to a prolonged illness after years of recurring health challenges.

A Towering Figure in Uganda’s Legal and Political Landscape

professor Kanyeihamba was widely recognized as a prominent legal scholar whose contributions profoundly shaped Uganda’s legal framework and democratic journey. His unwavering advocacy for constitutionalism, human rights, and judicial independence left an indelible mark on the nation. Notably,he played a pivotal role in the drafting of the landmark 1995 Constitution,a document that continues to guide Uganda’s governance.

His widow, Susan née Randall Kanyeihamba, and their children, Joel Matsiko and Nyakwezi, received President Museveni, who conveyed his deepest sympathies and shared cherished memories of the late professor.

President Museveni’s Heartfelt Tributes

In his address, President Museveni expressed profound gratitude for his association with Professor kanyeihamba, describing him as a important contributor to Uganda’s liberation and growth.

“Uganda and Africa at large where in a crisis, and part of the problem was the politics of identity,” President Museveni recalled. “When our people came, like the Rugundas, Mbabazis, and others who left, we came with a different emphasis on politics of interest against the politics of identity. And Kanyeihamba joined us, and he has been part of us all this time.”

The President emphasized the value of Professor Kanyeihamba’s input, stating, “that’s why I came to salute his contribution and let you know that we valued his input. So,I want to extend our condolences from the NRM and my family because he was also an associate of our other relatives who are lawyers,like John Kazoora.”

President Museveni reminisced about his first encounter with Professor Kanyeihamba, dating back to a significant debate at Makerere University in either 1969 or 1970. The debate featured Professor Mazrui, described as a reactionary, and Professor Rodney, a revolutionary, with President Museveni himself participating. “Kanyeihamba was there; he was a big lawyer and older than us. That was my first time seeing him,” he narrated.

Their paths crossed again in 1979 after the expulsion of Idi Amin, when Professor Lule appointed him attorney General. He served in the cabinet for 68 days. Later, in 1981, President Museveni encountered Professor Kanyeihamba again in the UK, where he was an active member of their external committee.

Upon the NRM’s ascent to power, Professor kanyeihamba became an integral part of the establishment. “When we came into government, he became part of us,” President Museveni stated. “When we expanded the NRC, he was elected in Rubanda as Member of Parliament. He later became Judge of the High Court.”

The President’s visit was graced by other notable figures, including former Prime Ministers Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda and Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi, who also shared glowing tributes, underscoring Professor Kanyeihamba’s immense impact on Uganda’s legal and political fabric.

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