The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | Joan Akello| Hon. Justice Julia Sebutinde at the dinner held in her honour won the Uganda Law Society Outstanding Award as the first Ugandan Judge at the International Court of Justice at the Hague on 19th Oct. Her speech was specifically delivered to female lawyers though even males can borrow the ten lessons she tipped the ladies about success.
“The month of October 2012 is of special significance to as we celebrate our 50th Independence Anniversary, she said,” I take this opportunity also to thank God for all that he has brought us through as a nation.”
“Many of you were not yet born in 1962 when we attained self-determination and probably have little idea of what Uganda looked like way back then. Those of you who were around will agree with me that Uganda was truly beautiful. Cities like Kampala, Jinja, Mbale, Masaka, Gulu and Lira were vibrant! We have as a nation undergone serious transformation.”
However, Sebutinde said that is also a time for the nation to reflect its achievements, failures, shortcomings.
“It is imperative that we audit our performance and growth as a nation if we are to face the future with renewed hope for growth and development.”
She cited ten lessons that have helped her succeed in life.
“It’s been said that Life is about opportunity, choice and timing…be visionary, resourceful, daring, tenacious, ambitious, discerning resilient, humble, self-critique and worship.”
“In my line of work, I never walk into a courtroom trusting in my own abilities. I pray and ask God to give me “the wisdom of Solomon” (i.e. knowing what to do in a particular situation); to grant me favour amongst my peers and to walk with me each day.”
She praised the Uganda Law Society Women Lawyers and the ULS Women Lawyers Committee for the award. She also expressed gratitude to Hon. Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire for his ‘uncanny way of following in her footsteps career-wise.
