Human rights lawyer Nicholas Opiyo has offered a deeply personal reflection on Uganda’s newly appointed Attorney General Sam Mayanja, describing him as a long-standing mentor, confidant and intellectual counterpart as he assumes one of the country’s most powerful legal offices.
Mayanja’s appointment comes in the latest Cabinet reshuffle by President Yoweri Museveni, which saw former Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka moved to the Defence Ministry.
The change places Mayanja at the centre of Uganda’s legal and constitutional machinery at a time of heightened scrutiny over governance, land administration and institutional accountability.
In his remarks, Opiyo recalled a formative act of generosity by Mayanja during their time at university, saying it left a lasting impression on his personal and professional journey.
He said Mayanja once gave him UGX 500,000 without conditions at a time when he was a struggling student.
“At university, Sam gave me the largest amount of money anyone had ever given me at that time—UGX 500,000—no strings attached—pure generosity to a poor kid,” Opiyo said, describing the gesture as life-changing.
Opiyo further revealed that after completing law school, Mayanja offered him employment.
However, he declined the offer in order to pursue a career in human rights advocacy in northern Uganda, a decision that would later define his professional path.
Despite taking different routes in law and public service, Opiyo said Mayanja has remained a consistent presence in his life, describing him as a “confidant, friend, silent guide, and in many ways—even in disagreement—a north star.”
He expressed anticipation for Mayanja’s vision as he formally takes up the Attorney General’s office, a position that serves as the government’s principal legal adviser and sits at the intersection of the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary.
The Attorney General’s office is widely regarded as one of the most influential in Uganda’s governance structure, responsible for shaping legislation, advising Cabinet and representing the state in major legal disputes.
The role also carries historical weight, having been held by several prominent legal and political figures over the decades.
Opiyo acknowledged that despite their differing perspectives on law and governance, he expects continued intellectual engagement with Mayanja in his new capacity. He said divergence in opinion would not affect their mutual respect.
“I am sure we will diverge in opinions, as we have in the past, but nothing will diminish our shared camaraderie and respect for each other,” he said.
Looking ahead, Opiyo said he is eager to hear Mayanja articulate his priorities and vision for the Attorney General’s office, noting the importance of clear legal direction in shaping Uganda’s governance and justice systems.
“I look forward to his first conversation as our AG. Our discourse will be robust, honest, and forward-looking,” he added.