The Judiciary has mourned the death of retired Supreme Court Justice Augustine Sebutulo Nshimye, describing him as a distinguished jurist and statesman whose lifelong service greatly shaped Uganda’s legal and political landscape.
Justice Nshimye passed away on April 3, 2026, at the age of 79. Born on December 12, 1946, in Namutamba, Bulera Sub-county, Mityana District, he rose through the ranks of public service to become one of Uganda’s most respected judicial figures.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Chief Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija said the Judiciary had received the news with profound sorrow. “Justice Nshimye was a distinguished jurist, seasoned public servant, and statesman whose life was marked by unwavering dedication to justice and national service,” the statement read.
Justice Nshimye began his public service career in 1966 as a Clerical Officer and steadily rose to serve as Magistrate Grade I. He later served as Deputy Chief Registrar from 1986 to 1988 before leaving the bench for private legal practice.
His return to judicial service marked the start of an illustrious chapter. In 2008, he was appointed to the Court of Appeal/Constitutional Court, where he distinguished himself through sound jurisprudence and principled decision-making.
He was appointed Acting Justice of the Supreme Court in 2010 and elevated to the substantive position in September 2015, marking the pinnacle of his judicial career. In the same year, Justice Nshimye was appointed the pioneer Chief Inspector of Courts, a role he served concurrently with his Supreme Court duties.
He was instrumental in promoting accountability, efficiency, and integrity within the Judiciary. Justice Nshimye retired in March 2017 upon attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70, but was later reappointed as Acting Justice of the Supreme Court for two years, in recognition of his vast experience.
Beyond the Judiciary, Justice Nshimye contributed to national leadership, serving as Member of Parliament for Mityana South Constituency and as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation, playing a key role in regional integration and national policy development.
At the time of his death, he was serving as a Court Accredited Mediator attached to the Family Division, reflecting his continued commitment to alternative dispute resolution and access to justice.The Judiciary described him as a man of intellect, integrity, humility, and steadfast commitment to the rule of law.
“He leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and commitment to the rule of law, reflected in the institutions he helped shape and the many lives he touched,” the statement said. Condolences have been extended to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
According to the Judiciary’s draft program, family, friends, and well-wishers will gather to honor his life beginning with a vigil on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the family home on Mawanda Road, Kamwokya, from 5:00 pm, followed by an official vigil on Sunday, April 5, and concluding with a funeral service on Monday, April 6, 2026, at All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero, starting at 2:00 pm.
The Judiciary says a detailed program will be shared in due course. URN