Former Chief Justice of Uganda, Bart Magunda Katureebe, launched his memoir titled “My Life: Turbulent Times and Service in the Three Branches of Government” on May 4 at the Kampala Serena Hotel.
KAMPALA, UGANDA | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Bart Magunda Katureebe, the former Chief Justice of Uganda, has launched his memoir titled “My Life: Turbulent Times and Service in the Three Branches of Government.”
During his speech, Katureebe emphasised the importance of transparency and accountability, as well as the need for collaboration between different branches of government. He also writes about his Bunyaruguru roots and how at one time they were a minority within the Ankole ethnic group.
The launch event, held on May 4, was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Former Vice President Specioza Wandera Kazibwe and Chief Justice Alphonse Owiny-Dollo.
From Goat Herdsboy to Chief Justice
Katureebe’s memoir chronicles his life from humble beginnings as a goat herdsboy in Bunyaruguru to public service in the three branches of government.
It details his illustrious career, which saw him rise to head the judicial branch of government as Chief Justice.
The memoir is published by Elite Publishers and is now available in major bookshops in the country. Katureebe said, “The book is only a microcosm of what has gone right and wrong along the way. It is not all gloom and I hope reading it gives you the entertainment value that I believe is within.”
Reading Session of Excerpts
The launch event included a reading session of excerpts from the memoir. Katureebe’s wife Bernadette reminisced about how they met, while Makerere University classmate Olara Otunnu recounted their school days.
Former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi also spoke about their early days of service during turbulent times, among others.
Lauded for Dedication and Integrity
At the launch event, speakers including Former Vice President Specioza Wandera Kazibwe and Chief Justice Alphonse Owiny-Dollo lauded Katureebe for his dedication and integrity during his time of service to the country.
Owiny-Dollo described him as a man of great humility with a persona made of steel.
He recounted how Katureebe advised against a bill being pursued by an NRM caucus, which went ahead because they had the majority. The law was later struck down by the court and they had to start over.
Guest of Honour
The Guest of Honour at the event was Amos Wako, a former Kenyan Attorney General and Senator, who worked with Katureebe on treaties binding the East African Community. Wako described him as an honourable man and revealed the origin of his friend’s name.
Katureebe’s parents had lost children before he was born and gave him the name Katureebe, which means “one who survives difficult circumstances.”
Importance of Transparency and Accountability
During his speech, Katureebe emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, as well as the need for collaboration between different branches of government.
He also writes about his Bunyaruguru roots and how they were a minority within the Ankole ethnic group.
Autograph Session and Availability
Guests at the launch event had the opportunity to have the author autograph the book for them. Published by Elite Publishers, “My Life: Turbulent Times and Service in the Three Branches of Government” is now available in major bookshops in the country.
Editor’s Note: We would appreciate it if you could reach out to press@nowthendigital.com if you find any outdated or inaccurate content.