Tribute to the Late Prof. George Wilson Kanyeihamba (1939–2025)

By Uganda Today Staff Writer | www.ugandatoday.co.ug | July 15, 2025

Uganda is mourning the passing of one of its most distinguished legal minds and principled statesmen, Professor George Wilson Kanyeihamba, who passed away on 14th July 2025 at the age of 85. His death marks the end of an era for Uganda’s judiciary, academia, and governance, where he left an indelible mark as a jurist, teacher, author, and fearless advocate for constitutionalism.

Born on 11 August 1939 in Kinaba, Kinkizi District in southwestern Uganda, Prof. Kanyeihamba rose from humble beginnings to become one of Africa’s most respected legal scholars. The youngest of eleven children, he was born to Zakaliya Bafwokworora and Kyenda Malyamu Kyakundwa, whose nurturing spirit embedded in him values of integrity and perseverance.

A Legal and Constitutional Giant

Prof. Kanyeihamba’s illustrious career began with a solid academic foundation. He studied at institutions including Busoga College Mwiri, Portsmouth University, and later obtained a Ph.D. in Law from the University of Warwick, which also awarded him an honorary LLD in 2008. He would later become a revered lecturer in law across universities in the UK and Uganda, eventually teaching at the University of Wales and Lanchester Polytechnic (now Coventry University).

Back home, he served as Minister of Commerce, Minister of Justice, Attorney General, and Member of Parliament in the early years of President Yoweri Museveni’s administration. But it was as a Supreme Court Justice (1997–2009) and Chair of the Legal and Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly that Prof. Kanyeihamba’s name became synonymous with Uganda’s 1995 Constitution, widely hailed as one of the most progressive charters in Africa.

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His landmark judicial bravery was most notably displayed in 2006, when he was one of three Supreme Court justices who ruled that President Museveni’s re-election had been so marred by irregularities that it should have been annulled. For this principled stand, Prof. Kanyeihamba was controversially ousted from the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, a sacrifice that cemented his legacy as a judge of conscience, unbowed by political pressure.

Champion of Human Rights and Good Governance

Prof. Kanyeihamba was an unapologetic defender of the rule of law. He openly criticised government overreach, most notably condemning the infamous storming of the High Court by security agents to re-arrest suspects released on bail—a move later declared unconstitutional. He served as Legal Adviser to the President on Human Rights and International Affairs, and was also a member of the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative, Chairman of the Committee on Judges’ Terms and Conditions, and Chancellor of both Kampala International University and Kabale University.

His literary contributions include books such as “Constitutional and Political History of Uganda”, “Kanyeihamba’s Commentaries on Law, Politics and Governance”, and “The Blessings and Joy of Being Who You Are”. Through his writing and public speaking, he mentored generations of legal minds and policymakers who today form the backbone of Uganda’s judiciary and legal academia.

Tributes Flow for a Judicial Icon

As the nation mourns, tributes have poured in from across the political and professional spectrum.

His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s Tribute

“We have learnt with great sadness the news of the demise of your beloved father the late Prof. George W. Kanyeihamba who was a friend of mine for many years.”

“We join the Nation to mourn the passing of a selfless leader who served the Nation with dedication for many years as a charismatic nationalist and champion of fundamental human rights. As a courageous leader, he consistently advocated for unity in diversity, the rule of law, and good governance, even when it meant standing alone.”

“Prof. Kanyeihamba’s legacy extends beyond his academic and legal achievements. He dedicated his life to speaking for the voiceless and promoting the principles of constitutionalism. His unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and justice earned him a special place in the hearts of many.”

“As a family friend and respected figure, I had the privilege of interacting with him on various national and international issues. His emphasis on the role of cultural institutions in national development and unity reflected his deep love for Uganda. He also mentored many young lawyers and leaders, leaving a lasting impact.”

“We pray that his legacy of unity, peace, and good governance inspires future generations. May young leaders emulate his courage and commitment to speaking the truth. May his soul rest in eternal peace!”

— Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, Kabaka of Buganda

Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, President of the National Unity Platform (NUP), issued a heartfelt message:

“My family and I are saddened by the news of the death of Professor Dr. GW Kanyeihamba.
Our hearts go to the family and friends of the late, great pillar of constitutionalism in Uganda and Africa. May the Lord strengthen his family and friends through this tough time. Rest in Glory Prof.”

Isaac Ssemakadde, President of the Uganda Law Society, also paid homage to the fallen legal titan:

“Prof. Kanyeihamba embodied courage, conviction, and clarity in defence of the rule of law. His contributions laid a foundation on which today’s judiciary stands. Uganda has lost a giant. We must uphold the values he died defending.”

Personal Life and Final Journey

Prof. Kanyeihamba was married to Susan Kanyeihamba (née Randall), and together they raised three children, including an adopted daughter. He was a devoted family man and spiritual thinker, with reflections on personal identity and morality captured in his final book “The Blessings and Joy of Being Who You Are.”

Though he has departed, Prof. Kanyeihamba’s legacy remains a towering presence in Uganda’s legal and democratic institutions. His fearlessness, intellectual rigour, and unwavering commitment to justice shall inspire future generations.

As Uganda prepares to lay him to rest, it does so with a heart full of gratitude.
Rest in glory, Prof. George Wilson Kanyeihamba—constitutional architect, defender of justice, and a true son of Africa.

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