Execution of decrees in Uganda
In brief
A judgment is only as good as its execution. Under Order 22 of the Civil Procedure Rules a decree-holder may enforce a decree by modes including attachment and sale of the judgment debtor's movable or immovable property, garnishee of debts owed to the debtor, and other measures the court allows.
1. Governing law
Execution is the process by which the court compels satisfaction of a decree. The decree-holder applies for execution specifying the mode sought; the court issues the appropriate process. Certain property is exempt from attachment, and a judgment debtor or third party may object to attachment, which the court determines. Time limits apply to the enforceability of decrees.
2. Key statutes & rules
- Civil Procedure Rules, Order 22 — execution of decrees and orders (application, modes, objections).
- Civil Procedure Act, Cap. 282 — execution framework and exemptions.
- Limitation Act, Cap. 290 — period to enforce a judgment.
3. Practical guidance
Extract the decree and apply for execution specifying the mode.
Identify attachable assets or debts (for garnishee) of the debtor.
Anticipate objector claims and exemptions.
Watch the limitation period for enforcing the decree.
This note is a practitioner orientation, not legal advice, and does not create an advocate–client relationship. Ugandan law changes and chapter and section numbers were revised in the 2023 Laws of Uganda. Verify every statute, rule and authority against the current primary source — and the specific facts of your matter — before filing or relying on it.