President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced the reappointment of Dr. Johnson Byabashaija as the Commissioner General of Prisons for another two-year term, commencing on May 4. This decision comes as Dr. Byabashaija's previous term, renewed in January 2022, approaches its end.
In accordance with the Uganda Public Service Standing Orders (2010), individuals can be employed on contract terms after reaching the age of 60, with a typical duration of service set at two years, unless otherwise specified by the appointing authority.
Dr. Byabashaija's leadership of the Uganda Prisons Services has been widely acclaimed for its transformative impact on the institution. Joining the service in 1983, he has steadily risen through the ranks, assuming the role of Commissioner General in 2005.
President Museveni recently commended Dr. Byabashaija for his stewardship, praising the institution under his leadership for its exemplary conduct and lack of significant controversies.
"I want to thank prisons because I don’t hear much trouble there. It seems the discipline is quite high and I congratulate you on that," President Museveni remarked.
He further expressed satisfaction with the institution's operational doctrine, which emphasizes rigorous training and promotional examinations.
"I am glad with the doctrine of the prisons where every step is preceded by a course and promotional exams. With discipline, good health, and promotional exams, nothing will stop you," he added.
The renewal of Dr. Byabashaija's tenure signifies a vote of confidence in his ability to continue steering the Uganda Prisons Services towards further success and efficiency. Under his leadership, efforts to enhance discipline, improve inmate welfare, and modernize prison facilities have been prioritized, contributing to a positive image of the institution.
Dr. Byabashaija's reappointment is expected to ensure continuity in ongoing reforms within the prison system and reinforce the commitment to upholding standards of professionalism and accountability.
As he embarks on another term at the helm of the Uganda Prisons Services, Dr. Byabashaija remains dedicated to advancing its mission of safe custody, rehabilitation, and reintegration, reaffirming the crucial role of the institution in Uganda's criminal justice system.
WHO IS BYABASHAIJA?
Born on September 27, 1957, to the late Gregory Rwanshote and Late Cecilia Rwanshote in Kajumiro village, Nyakishenyi sub-county, Rubabo county, Rukungiri District, Dr. Johnson Omuhunde Rwashote Byabashaija is the eldest of seven children in a family of three boys and four girls. Byabashaija, a Ugandan Canon and Veterinary doctor, has served as the Commissioner General of Prisons in Uganda since 2005. He was appointed a Lay Canon in the Church of Uganda North Kigezi.
In 1982, Byabashaija joined the Uganda Prisons Service and underwent a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Course at the Prisons Training School before assuming duties within the service. Initially assigned to Kigo Prison to manage the prison's hatchery, he spent approximately 15 years there, eventually rising to the position of Officer-in-Charge of Kigo Prison. In 1999, he earned a promotion to Assistant Commissioner of Prisons and was subsequently transferred to Prisons Headquarters as Assistant Commissioner in charge of farms inspectorate in 2000.
His career progression continued as he was promoted to Senior Assistant Commissioner for two years, followed by a promotion to Deputy Commissioner General for one and a half years. Finally, in 2005, he assumed the role of Commissioner General of Prisons, succeeding Joseph A.A. Etima upon his retirement
