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Professor Kiddu Makubuya, a renowned Ugandan lawyer, academic, and former Attorney General, passed away at the age of 75 after a prolonged illness, as confirmed by his family.
Born on July 30, 1949, Makubuya had a distinguished career in both academia and public service. He graduated with First Class Honours in Law from Makerere University in 1974 and later earned advanced degrees in law from Yale University. His academic career at Makerere University was notable, where he served as a lecturer, senior lecturer, and eventually an associate professor. He was also deeply involved in legal practice as a partner at Kasolo & Khiddu Advocates.
Service
In public service, Makubuya held several key positions. He served as Uganda's Attorney General from 2005 to 2011, a period marked by significant political developments, including the introduction of multiparty politics and challenges to the political status quo. His tenure saw him attempt to block the 2005 presidential nomination of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, citing legal grounds due to Besigye's criminal court remand status.
CHOGM Scandal
Makubuya also held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Education and Sports, Minister of General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs (International Cooperation). His political career, however, was marred by corruption allegations related to the 2007 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Kampala.
In addition to his legal and political contributions, Makubuya played a significant role in Uganda's constitutional development. He was a member of the Uganda Constitutional Commission, which drafted the 1995 Constitution, and served on the Commission of Inquiry into Violations of Human Rights.
Makubuya's death marks the end of a significant chapter in Uganda's legal and political history, leaving behind a legacy of service in both academia and public life.