Residents Sue ICJ Judge Sebutinde Over Bugolobi High-Rise, Citing Zoning and Privacy Breaches

Four homeowners of Bugolobi Bungalows in Kampala have filed a petition in the High Court seeking to halt construction of a five-storey apartment project being developed by International Criminal Court Judge Julia Sebutinde and her husband, alleging violations of planning rules and their constitutional right to privacy.

The suit, lodged at the Civil Division of the High Court, names Justice Sebutinde, her husband John Bagunywa Sebutinde, and site supervisor Joseph Wamala as defendants. Among the plaintiffs is Pius Bigirimana, the Secretary to Uganda’s Judiciary.

The residents contend that the building permit issued by Kampala Capital City Authority contravenes zoning laws for the low-density residential area on Princess Anne Drive in Nakawa Division, and that the development has substantially disrupted the character of the neighbourhood. They argue Kampala authorities improperly approved the project without the endorsement of the Local Council I leadership, which had previously declined a letter of no objection due to zoning restrictions.

According to court filings, noise, dust and structural vibrations from the construction have interfered with neighbouring services and materially diminished property values.

Bigirimana says the new structure directly overlooks private living spaces, “undermining his family’s privacy” and causing “constant disturbance and psychological distress.”

The petition is now before Deputy Registrar Simon Kintu Zirintusa with a ruling expected next week.