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When did Museveni appoint Aisha Naluzze?
Today, October 7, 2025, President Yoweri Museveni has named High Court Judge Aisha Naluzze Batala as the new Inspector General of Government (IGG), replacing Beti Olive Namisango Kamya whose term expired last month. The appointment, announced Tuesday evening, restores full leadership to the constitutionally mandated anti-graft body pending parliamentary approval.
Justice Batala, 48, who currently serves in the Land Division of the High Court, steps into the role after exercising President Museveni’s constitutional powers, as confirmed by presidential assistant for press and mobilization Faruk Kirunda in a statement on X (formerly Twitter). Born in 1977, the seasoned jurist brings over two decades of legal experience, including a distinguished career as a prosecutor, to the watchdog office that promotes good governance and combats corruption in public office.
A Trailblazing Legal Career: The Biography of Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala
Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala’s journey in law is marked by rigorous academic pursuits and hands-on roles in prosecution and advocacy, positioning her as a formidable figure in Uganda’s justice system. She earned her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Reading in the United Kingdom in 2004, followed by a Master of Laws (LLM) from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science in 2005. These qualifications laid the foundation for her return to Uganda, where she quickly established herself as an advocate of the High Court.
Batala’s early career began as a legal assistant at F. Mukasa & Co. Advocates, honing her skills in private practice before transitioning to public service. She joined the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), where she served as a prosecutor, building a reputation for precision in handling complex cases. Her tenure at the ODPP spanned years, focusing on criminal justice and contributing to international cooperation efforts in criminal matters. This prosecutorial background, combined with her advocacy experience, made her a natural fit for the bench.
In 2023, President Museveni appointed her as one of 11 new High Court judges, a role she assumed with a focus on the Land Division, addressing critical issues in property and environmental law. Her confirmation came amid broader judicial reforms; after serving on an acting basis, she was among 11 judges whose appointments were ratified by the president on August 30, 2025, following the expiration of temporary contracts earlier that month. Batala was sworn in alongside her peers on September 3, 2025, solidifying her position.
Beyond the courtroom, Batala has engaged in forward-thinking initiatives. In March 2025, she participated in a UNESCO roundtable on “Harnessing AI for Justice: Balancing Innovation and Equity in East Africa,” where she discussed the potential of artificial intelligence to enhance judicial efficiency while ensuring fairness. Her contributions underscore a commitment to modernizing Uganda’s legal framework. Batala’s career trajectory—from private practice and prosecution to the High Court—reflects a blend of local insight and global perspective, making her well-suited to lead anti-corruption efforts.
Kamya’s Tenure: Advocacy Amid Criticism
Outgoing IGG Beti Olive Namisango Kamya (left in photo), a former presidential candidate and Kampala minister, was appointed in 2021 for a four-year term that ended on September 22, 2024—though the office referenced the expiry as last month, aligning with procedural delays. Her leadership earned praise for bold public advocacy, including pledges to “name and shame” corrupt officials, but faced criticism for limited prosecutions in high-profile graft cases, such as those highlighted in the Daily Monitor’s July 24, 2024, front-page coverage of Gen Z-led anti-corruption protests marching to Parliament.
Under Kamya, the IGG office operated with deputies Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria and Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe (photo right), who have been instrumental in maintaining administrative continuity since her departure. President Museveni has retained both in their positions, ensuring stability during the transition.
Path Forward: Parliamentary Vetting and Expectations
Kirunda noted that the names of the appointees have been forwarded to Parliament for vetting, expected in the coming days. Once approved, Justice Batala will formally assume office, bringing her prosecutorial precision and judicial vantage point to the forefront of Uganda’s anti-corruption drive. Stakeholders anticipate her leadership will address ongoing concerns about the office’s effectiveness, especially amid recent public outcries over graft.
The IGG’s role remains pivotal in a nation grappling with corruption scandals, and Batala’s appointment signals a renewed emphasis on accountability. As Uganda navigates these challenges, all eyes turn to Parliament for swift confirmation.
