Overview: A Notable Appointment for Uganda’s Prosecution Service
In a move that signals continuity and reform within Uganda’s criminal justice system, President Museveni has named Lino Anguzu as the new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Anguzu will assume the helm after Hon. Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo was elevated to Principal Judge. The appointment, disclosed by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), is now awaiting Parliament’s vetting process before formal confirmation.
About Lino Anguzu: A Profile in Public Service
Anguzu currently serves as the Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions and Head of the International Crimes Department at the ODPP. His track record includes handling complex prosecutions involving war crimes, terrorism, and corruption—areas that require meticulous legal analysis, robust evidence gathering, and strategic courtroom performance. As head of the International Crimes Department, he has contributed to Uganda’s efforts to address cross-border and high-profile offenses with professionalism and adherence to the rule of law.
Why This Nomination Matters
The ODPP described Anguzu’s nomination as a move to strengthen Uganda’s prosecutorial leadership at a time when the agency is modernizing its case management systems and expanding its regional footprint. Modernization efforts aim to improve case processing times, enhance transparency, and ensure that prosecutions align with international best practices. Anguzu’s experience in international crime matters positions him to navigate both domestic and cross-border legal challenges effectively.
Parliamentary Vetting and Expected Responsibilities
Parliament’s Appointments Committee is expected to vet Anguzu in the coming days. If approved, he will lead a workforce of more than 2,000 prosecutors nationwide. His stewardship will be pivotal in guiding Uganda’s response to serious crimes, including economic offenses, terrorism, human trafficking, gender-based violence, and other critical areas of criminal justice. The DPP’s office, under his leadership, will likely prioritize efficiency, inter-agency cooperation, and robust prosecutions that uphold due process and public confidence.
Legacy and Reforms Under the DPP Position
Justice Abodo’s tenure as DPP since 2020 is widely credited for implementing reforms that enhanced efficiency, transparency, and inter-agency cooperation in criminal justice. Her leadership helped set a benchmark for accountability and modern practices within the ODPP. Anguzu’s appointment is seen as a continuation of this reform trajectory, with an emphasis on maintaining high standards while expanding Uganda’s prosecutorial capabilities to meet evolving security and governance challenges.
What This Means for Uganda’s Justice System
With Anguzu at the helm, the DPP’s office is positioned to tackle complex cases more coherently across regions, leveraging improved case management and coordination with police, courts, and other agencies. The appointment aligns with national priorities to combat corruption, protect rights, and deliver justice efficiently to victims and communities affected by serious crimes.
Next Steps
As Parliament undertakes the vetting process, observers will watch for how Anguzu articulates his strategic vision for the ODPP. If confirmed, the DPP will oversee a pivotal era in Uganda’s criminal justice system—an era characterized by modernization, regional reach, and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law.
