President Yoweri Museveni has honored the life and legacy of the late Professor George William Kanyeihamba, describing him as a patriotic statesman and a vital contributor to Uganda’s legal and political development.
During a condolence visit to the family following Professor Kanyeihamba’s passing on July 14, 2025, Museveni reflected on their shared history, beginning with their first meeting at Makerere University in the late 1960s during a heated intellectual debate. At the time, Museveni was a university student in Dar es Salaam.
The President also recalled their time together in 1979 when Professor Kanyeihamba served as Attorney General in President Yusuf Lule’s short-lived cabinet.
Their association continued through the liberation struggle, including encounters in the United Kingdom, before Kanyeihamba later joined the post-conflict government.
Museveni praised Kanyeihamba’s commitment to promoting inclusive politics, describing him as a man who always prioritized national interests over identity divisions.
“I came here to recognize and appreciate his invaluable role in the transformation of this country,” Museveni said.
Joel Martin Masiko Kanyeihamba, one of the late professor’s sons, expressed deep appreciation for the President’s visit and for the opportunities his father received to serve Uganda. He also appealed for government support in clearing outstanding medical bills.
Suzan Kanyeihamba, the widow, spoke of the deep and respectful relationship her husband shared with the President, saying he always regarded his service to the country as a great honor.
Former Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda hailed Professor Kanyeihamba as a trailblazer in Uganda’s legal fraternity, noting his contributions as a founder of Makerere University Law School and a staunch advocate for justice and human rights.
“His judgments and publications remain a rich resource for current and future generations of lawyers,” Rugunda remarked.
Another former Prime Minister, Amama Mbabazi, conveyed to the family that President Museveni had pledged to cover the UGX 154 million in medical expenses incurred before Professor Kanyeihamba’s death.
Professor Kanyeihamba leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of Uganda’s most respected legal scholars, jurists, and public servants.
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