SP Kinobe

Ssaza Grounds Confirmed as Venue for Masaka Mobile Court Murder Trial

The Supreme Court in Kampala is set to hold a two-day Criminal Appeals session, during which a total of 19 criminal matters will be heard. The session will run from Monday November 16 to Wednesday November 18, 2026. Proceedings will be presided over by different panels of Justices comprising the Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, alongside Lady Justice Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza, Lady Justice Percy Night Tuhaise, Justice Mike Chibita, Lady Justice Elizabeth Musoke, Justice Stephen Musota, Justice Christopher Madrama Izama, Lady Justice Catherine Bamugemereire, Lady Justice Monica Mugenyi, and Justice Muzamiru Mutangula Kibeedi. According to the cause list issued by HW Ayebare Tumwebaze (Registrar, Supreme Court), the session is aimed at reducing case backlog, with some of the cases listed for hearing dating as far back as 2016 and 2017. Of the cases scheduled for hearing, Murder appeals constitute the majority, with 13 appeals and one application. Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Defilement account for two appeals each, while Aggravated Robbery and Attempted Murder account for one appeal each respectively

The Judiciary’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee has engaged the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to strengthen coordination in handling sexual harassment complaints, improve reporting channels and minimise the risk of re-traumatising complainants. During the engagement, JSC Chairperson Justice Dr Douglas K. Singiza emphasised that collaboration should support consistent and effective complaint handling while respecting the independent mandates of the Commission and the Judiciary. He explained that his engagements with Judiciary committees and the leadership of the Uganda Judicial Officers Association were intended to identify areas of cooperation and improve service to the public. Justice Dr Singiza acknowledged that fear of reporting remains a major obstacle to addressing sexual harassment. He noted that the Commission had encountered complaints involving judicial officers and support staff, underscoring the need for accessible and trusted reporting mechanisms. He pledged that the Commission would give serious consideration to reports submitted by the Committee to help avoid unnecessary duplication of investigations, save time and resources, and reduce the burden on complainants. Repeatedly requiring complainants to recount their experiences, he observed, could cause further distress and discourage them from pursuing complaints. Delays could also result in evidence being lost or compromised. Dr Singiza further highlighted the importance of impartiality and safeguards against conflicts of interest. He explained that where a complaint concerns the Chairperson, the Deputy Chairperson could constitute a committee to handle it. To improve reporting, he said the Commission was considering confidential online mechanisms, including a possible channel linked to the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS). The proposed mechanism would facilitate confidential submission of complaints to the Chairperson. He also called for joint training and broad comparative research to inform policy development, taking account of different institutional and cultural contexts. Dr Singiza informed the Committee that the Commission had developed an inter-agency document outlining how collaboration with other institutions could operate while preserving their respective mandates. He invited members to study it and identify practical areas for cooperation. The Chairperson of the Judiciary’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee, Lady Justice Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza, thanked Dr Singiza and the Commission for the engagement and their continued willingness to collaborate. She also appreciated his participation in the workshop organised by THUSA consultants from South Africa, noting that continued dialogue would help clarify reporting channels and strengthen the response to complaints. Lady Justice Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza emphasised the need for joint training to increase awareness of the applicable policies and reinforce understanding of sexual harassment as gross misconduct. She committed the Committee to studying the inter-agency document and pursuing further discussions with the Commission on joint training and practical arrangements for collaboration. Present; Justice Muzamiru Kibeedi; Justice Dr Asa Mugenyi; Lady Justice Flavia Matovu; HW Dorothy S. Lwanga; Ms Pamela Akello Pamleg, Deputy Registrar, JSC; Mr Geoffrey Ntalo, Assistant Registrar, JSC; HW Kirya Martins, Chief Magistrate, Pader; HW Aciro Jemimah; and Ms Lorna Amoro, Personal Assistant/Legal Manager to the JSC Chairperson

The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, has engaged community elders from Karamoja ahead of the planned rollout of Alternative Justice Systems (AJS), seeking their support in promoting dialogue, reconciliation and peaceful dispute resolution. Lady Justice Abodo informed the elders that AJS had already been launched in Gulu, Lira and Buganda, with Karamoja identified as the next region. She said the third week of November was under consideration for the launch and invited the elders’ guidance on preparations. The engagement focused on working with traditional community structures and identifying credible local mediators to support implementation. The Principal Judge explained that mediation was already established within the Judiciary, with structures operating from the lower courts to the Supreme Court. She noted that it enables parties to reach mutually acceptable settlements and take ownership of the outcome. Beyond settling disputes, she said, mediation helps restore relationships and strengthen peaceful coexistence. She linked this approach to African traditions of resolving disagreements through dialogue, reconciliation and, where appropriate, compensation. Lady Justice Abodo called for the elders’ cooperation in preparing for the rollout, highlighting the role of community structures in supporting accessible justice and lasting reconciliation

Happening Now: The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, is presiding over Moroto High Court’s Open Day at Moroto High Court Grounds, under the theme “Delivering Inclusive, Efficient and Effective Justice.” The event aims to strengthen access to justice and improve service delivery by bringing judicial officers, justice sector stakeholders and court users together for direct engagement. On arrival, the Principal Judge inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Uganda Police Force and was received by the Moroto High Court Resident Judge, Justice Tom Chemutai, alongside judicial officers and other officials. She planted a “Tree of Justice” to commemorate the occasion before holding a brief meeting with judicial officers and key stakeholders. Ahead of her arrival, justice sector institutions sensitised the public on their mandates and services. Among the presenters was Chief State Attorney Mr Innocent Obale, who explained the role of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Present, HW Prossy Katushabe, Registrar High Court, representing the Chief Registrar; HW Festo Nsenga, Deputy Registrar, Inspectorate; HW James Ereemye Mawanda, Judiciary Public Relations Officer; HW Nankya Nusulah, Assistant Registrar, Soroti High Court; HW James Opio, Chief Magistrate, Moroto; and HW Edger Nyakairu, Personal Assistant to the Principal Judge. Magistrates; HW Bashaija Mugisa (Moroto), HW Katende Rashid (Kotido), HW Sabiti Joseph (Nakapiripirit) and HW Opolot Simon Peter (Amudat), together with HW Oonyu Vincent, Research Magistrate attached to the Chambers of the Moroto Resident Judge. The event is being moderated by the Judiciary Public Relations Officer, HW James Ereemye Mawanda, assisted by Communications Officer Mr Deo Akugizibwe

The Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum, has challenged 110 newly enrolled advocates to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and ethical conduct, emphasising their responsibility to safeguard the administration of justice and restore public confidence in the legal profession. The call was made in remarks delivered on her behalf by HW Simon Zirintusa Kintu, Registrar of the Civil Division of the High Court, during an enrolment ceremony held today at the Supreme Court Building Conference Hall in Kampala. Congratulating the advocates on joining the legal profession, HW Alum reminded them that the privileges associated with legal practice come with significant responsibilities to the courts, clients and society. She expressed concern over declining public confidence in the legal profession, partly attributed to lapses in integrity and inadequate professional guidance, and urged the advocates to distinguish themselves through honesty, competence, diligence and accountability. The Chief Registrar emphasised that an advocate’s paramount duty is to the court and the administration of justice. She cautioned the new advocates against allowing clients’ interests to compromise their professional obligations and urged them to approach every case with adequate preparation, honesty and sound judgment. Referring to Article 126(2) of the Constitution, she reminded the advocates of their responsibility to promote justice for all, irrespective of social or economic status, avoid unnecessary delays, encourage reconciliation and advance substantive justice without undue regard to technicalities. HW Alum further encouraged the advocates to seek mentorship, continuously improve their professional skills and contribute to access to justice through pro bono legal services and community outreach, particularly for vulnerable people who cannot afford legal representation. Representing the Law Council, Ms. Naome Kyampaire congratulated the advocates on their enrolment and cautioned that admission to the profession marks the beginning of a career subject to strict ethical and regulatory obligations. She urged them to comply with professional requirements, including completing 20 hours of Continuous Legal Education annually, observing courtroom etiquette, avoiding conflicts of interest and safeguarding clients’ funds. Ms. Kyampaire warned that dishonesty and professional misconduct could have lasting consequences for an advocate’s career, stressing that reputation remains one of the most valuable assets in legal practice. She also reminded the advocates that effective communication with clients is a professional obligation and encouraged them to uphold transparency and accountability in their dealings. The Acting Secretary General of the Uganda Law Society, Mr. Babu Ssali, who represented the ULS President, welcomed the newly enrolled advocates and encouraged them to embrace continuous learning and specialisation. He urged them to explore emerging areas of legal practice, including artificial intelligence, international trade, climate change litigation and global human rights, noting that these fields present opportunities for professional growth. Mr. Ssali further encouraged the advocates to regard legal practice as a calling grounded in honour, humility and service, emphasising that their conduct would be instrumental in strengthening public confidence in the profession. The ceremony, moderated by HW Fidelis Otwao, Personal Assistant to the Chief Registrar, marked the formal enrolment of 110 advocates into legal practice before the Courts of Judicature

The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, has urged Anti-Sexual Harassment focal persons to practise active listening, respond empathetically to complainants and safeguard their own emotional well-being as they support colleagues who have experienced sexual harassment. She made the remarks last evening while formally closing the Judiciary’s Anti-Sexual Harassment training at Emin Pasha Hotel. The training brought together focal persons from courts across the country, Committee members and judicial leaders to strengthen their capacity to receive complaints and support victims and survivors. Lady Justice Abodo emphasised that attentive listening is essential when handling sensitive complaints, noting that people can easily recognise when the person receiving their account is distracted or disengaged. She said sharing a difficult experience with someone who is not paying attention can be deeply discouraging. She encouraged focal persons to practise active listening and regularly share experiences and lessons without disclosing details of specific cases. The Principal Judge noted that some complainants may arrive frustrated or doubtful that they will receive assistance, having moved between offices without their concerns being addressed. She cautioned focal persons against dismissing individuals because of their initial attitude, urging them to consider the experiences that may have shaped those reactions. Lady Justice Abodo also reminded participants that repeatedly listening to accounts of trauma can affect their mental and emotional health, sometimes without their immediately recognising it. She encouraged them to prepare for these demands, recognise signs of secondary trauma and prioritise their well-being. “If you do not take care of yourselves and your wellness, you will not be able to take care of others,” she said. Thanking the focal persons for accepting the responsibility, Lady Justice Abodo emphasised that sexual harassment is an institutional concern requiring a collective response. She commended the THUSA Consulting team for facilitating the training and appreciated the Chairperson of the Judiciary’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee, Lady Justice Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza, for her innovative approach to the Committee’s work. She also thanked the Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission for facilitating the Committee’s forthcoming engagement with the Commission. In his remarks, the Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission, Justice Dr Douglas Singiza Karekona, said the Commission’s constitutional mandate includes handling matters concerning personnel in the Judicial Service. He noted that its Regulations provide for sexual harassment as a service offence, with sanctions that include dismissal. Justice Dr Singiza expressed concern that, according to data provided to him, the Commission had never recorded a sexual harassment case, despite evidence that such conduct was occurring within the Judicial Service. He stressed that the Commission could not address the problem alone and called for stronger cooperation with the Judiciary’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee and other stakeholders. He announced that the Commission would host Committee members next week at its new premises in Naguru. The training was facilitated by THUSA Consulting experts Ms Vanja Karth, Ms Jeanne Bodenstein and Ms Sanja Bornman. Present; Justice Kibeedi Muzamiru, Justice Dr Asa Mugenyi, Mr Flavia Matovu, Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe and the Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum. Registrar Inspectorate of Courts, HW Sarah Tusiime Bashaija; Committee Secretary, HW Dorothy Lwanga; Committee Members, HW Martins Kirya; and Principal Human Resource Officer, Ms Caroline Aguti were in attendance

Happening Now: The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, is this morning meeting with the 2025 cohort of Judges of the High Court at the Supreme Court Building, under the theme _*“Reflecting on Experience, Strengthening Judicial Excellence and Preparing for the Next Chapter.”*_ The meeting provides a platform for the Judges to reflect on their two years of service as Acting Judges of the High Court, sharing their experiences, achievements, lessons learnt and personal growth. Discussions are also focusing on the realities of judicial work, including case management, judgment writing, backlog reduction, the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS), Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and administrative constraints. The Judges are further engaging in an open discussion with the Principal Judge on professional challenges, institutional support, welfare, expectations and the way forward. The meeting will also identify key lessons and generate practical recommendations aimed at strengthening the operations and performance of the High Court

Lady Justice Esta Nambayo, Justice of the Court of Appeal, has urged the Court’s Records Tracing, Verification and Accountability Project team to undertake thorough physical verification of court files to support case disposal and strengthen records management. She made the call while chairing a project team meeting at the Court of Appeal in Kampala. The exercise, which began in early October 2026, targets more than 1,000 files, particularly those with missing, misplaced, incomplete or untraceable records. It seeks to establish the status and completeness of files, identify discrepancies and duplicate files, and retrieve records needed to facilitate the timely disposal of cases. The project team supports the Records Tracing and Verification Committee established by the Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi. The Committee comprises Lady Justice Nambayo, Justice Jesse Byaruhanga and Registrars attached to the Court of Appeal. The team brings together staff from the IT Department and the Court of Appeal Criminal Registry, alongside advocates assigned to the exercise, with support from the Court’s Registrars. Lady Justice Nambayo emphasised diligence, thoroughness and attention to detail. She encouraged members to use planned field visits to physically trace records, establish the status of each file and document their findings to guide further action. The team will liaise with the High Court, the Uganda Prisons Service and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to locate and retrieve missing records. Beyond tracing individual files, the project will identify gaps in records management and recommend measures to strengthen the custody, movement and security of court records. By addressing missing and incomplete records that hinder case progression, the exercise is intended to support efforts to reduce case backlog. The meeting was attended by HW Rukundo Allen Owembabazi, Registrar, Court of Appeal; HW Mulalira Faisal Umar, Private Legal Secretary to the Deputy Chief Justice; and HW Nanteza Zulaika, Deputy Registrar, Court of Appeal. Also present were staff from the IT Department and the Court of Appeal Criminal Registry, as well as advocates assigned to the project

Ongoing: The Judiciary’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee is conducting training at Emin Pasha Hotel to equip designated officers with practical skills to receive complaints and support victims and survivors of sexual harassment without re-traumatising them. The training is being facilitated by international experts from THUSA Consulting: Ms Vanja Karth, Ms Jeanne Bodenstein and Ms Sanja Bornman. Opening the engagement, the Committee Chairperson, Hon. Lady Justice Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza, said the Committee recognised the need for specialist expertise to help personnel respond appropriately to sexual harassment complaints. She explained that, during sensitisation programmes across various High Court circuits, staff were asked to identify trusted colleagues to serve as focal persons. The approach is intended to enable those seeking assistance to access support within their circuits without having to travel to Kampala. Justice Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza noted that focal persons must be prepared to receive colleagues in distress, provide appropriate support and confidently connect complainants with the Committee. She said Registrars from the Inspectorate of Courts had also been invited because they may encounter sexual harassment complaints during inspections, alongside other complaints such as allegations of bribery. She noted that persons such as the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo; the Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum, Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe-Mukwaya, the President of the International Association of Women Judges Uganda Chapter and HW Daphne Ayebare, President of the Uganda Judicial Officers Association, were invited because of the roles and positions they occupy. Noting that some complainants may wish to approach them as leaders and administrators. The engagement brings together Committee members, focal persons, judicial leaders, human resource personnel and representatives of the Judicial Service Commission. Notably present; Chairperson Judicial Service Commission, Justice Dr Douglas Singiza Karekona, Committee members; Justice Kibeedi Muzamiru, Dr Asa Migenyi and Lady Justice Flavia Matovu. Present; Registrar Inspectorate of Courts, HW Sarah Tusiime Bashaija; Committee Secretary, HW Dorothy Lwanga; Committee Members, HW Martins Kirya; and Principal Human Resource Officer, Ms Caroline Aguti. The Committee was established by the Hon. Chief Justice pursuant to Regulation 29 of the Administration of the Judiciary (Establishment of Committees) Regulations, 2023. Its mandate includes receiving, processing and managing sexual harassment complaints, investigating and handling them in accordance with the Judiciary’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Policy, and conducting sensitisation programmes for staff at all levels. Through its sensitisation work, the Committee identified a need for further training, particularly on supporting victims and survivors without causing additional distress. It subsequently engaged the Judicial Institute for Africa (JIFA), attached to the University of Cape Town, which partnered with South Africa’s THUSA Consulting to design a training programme for relevant Judiciary personnel and support the development of a comprehensive policy informed by international standards. The consultants’ engagement with the Committee runs from 3 to 6 November 2026 and covers several areas relevant to its mandate. The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, is expected to close the training. The Judiciary’s Public Relations Officer, HW James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda, is moderating the proceedings

The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, has called for early access to legal representation, timely investigations and stronger coordination among justice institutions to address prolonged pre-trial detention. Addressing a meeting with a team from Avocats Sans Frontières (ASF) at her chambers at the Judiciary Headquarters in Kampala, Lady Justice Abodo urged the Judiciary and civil society organisations to translate their partnerships into practical, lasting improvements for people in detention. She said successful interventions should be incorporated into institutional practice so that their benefits continue beyond individual project periods. “Pre-trial detention really makes us look bad as a country generally. How do you get a case in court and find that someone has been in prison for six years?” she asked, citing instances where accused persons had spent years on remand before being acquitted because of insufficient evidence. The Principal Judge emphasised that efforts to address prolonged detention must examine the entire criminal justice process, from arrest and police custody to investigations, prosecution and case disposal. She noted that people held in police cells may remain outside the attention of courts and other justice institutions, underscoring the importance of legal assistance from the time of arrest. Lady Justice Abodo urged ASF to share findings, statistics and experiences from its work with detainees to help identify gaps and guide targeted interventions. “You are in a unique position to see exactly where the gaps are. When you come to the Judiciary, you should be telling us where you need us to intervene and where that intervention will have the most impact,” she said. She added that timely case reviews by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) had helped identify matters that were not ready for trial and prevent unnecessary delays. The Principal Judge said the Judiciary was establishing a taskforce to address prison congestion, with the aim of achieving tangible results within one year. Its work would also examine how to ensure that cases proceeding through the justice system are supported by sufficient evidence. *Safeguarding fairness in Plea Bargaining and bail* Lady Justice Abodo cautioned against accused persons entering plea agreements merely because they are exhausted by prolonged imprisonment. She stressed that plea bargaining should reflect a voluntary and informed decision by a person who accepts responsibility for an offence and understands the consequences. On bail, she emphasised the need to protect judicial independence and allow judicial officers to determine individual applications in accordance with the applicable legal framework and guidelines. She called for closer coordination among the Judiciary, police and ODPP to support timely investigations, effective prosecution and expeditious case disposal, while protecting the interests of accused persons, victims and society. *Prioritising rehabilitation and reintegration of children* The Principal Judge said the Judiciary was prioritising timely handling of children’s cases, legal representation, diversion, rehabilitation and reintegration. Following concerns identified during her visit to Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Centre, she said the Judiciary was working with Pepperdine University to support improvements in children’s living conditions. Special court sessions were also ongoing to ensure that children’s cases receive prompt attention, taking account of their particular needs and circumstances. She further highlighted collaboration with the @IDLO International Development Law Organisation to improve legal representation, review cases involving children in detention and explore opportunities for diversion and bail where appropriate

Earlier: The State-Funded Legal Representation Committee today met at the Supreme Court Building to discuss its workplan and identify priority areas for its activities. The meeting was chaired by the Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum, who thanked members for their participation and contributions. Discussions included plans to engage beneficiaries of state brief legal representation to better understand their experiences and inform the Committee’s work

Ongoing: The Constitutional Court has commenced a two-day Constitutional Petitions session, during which a total of 12 matters are scheduled to be heard. The session will conclude tomorrow Wednesday, November 4, 2026. It aims to expedite the hearing and determination of pending constitutional cases and promote their timely disposal. Proceedings are being presided over by the Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi, alongside Lady Justice Irene Mulyagonja, Justice Dr. Asa Mugenyi, Justice John Mike Musisi, Lady Justice Florence Nakachwa, and Lady Justice Esta Nambayo. According to the cause list issued by the Court’s Deputy Registrar, HW Mugala Jane, among the matters listed for hearing is a petition filed by Robert Mwesige Vs Attorney General, challenging the legality and constitutionality of privileges, allowances and benefits awarded to Members of Parliament, which he alleges are excessive, discriminatory and an abuse of public resources. The Court will also hear a petition filed by the Democratic Front and two others against the Attorney General and Electoral Commission. They challenge the organization and conduct of parliamentary elections without first reviewing the demarcation of Parliamentary Constituencies within 12 months after the publication of the results of the census of the population of Uganda, which, according to them, is contrary to Article 63(5) of the Constitution of Uganda. Other matters include a petition by National Unity Platform vs Attorney General, challenging Section 14(2) of the Political Parties and Organizations Act, insofar as it restricts government funds or other public resources to political parties and organizations that are members of or engage in activities of the inter-party organization, and is therefore inconsistent with Articles 2, 20, 21, 29(1)(e) and 71(2) of the Constitution. A petition by Eddie Kwizera vs Attorney General, challenging, among others, Sections 18, 20, 22 and 23 of the Parliamentary Pensions (Amendment) Act, 2022, on grounds that creating a charge on the Consolidated Fund contravenes Article 93(a)(ii) of the Constitution. Aboneka Michael vs Attorney General seeking a declaration that the filing and subsequent hearing of cases before the Local Council Courts, which are not recognized in the Constitution as competent courts of jurisdiction under the impugned sections, are in contravention of and inconsistent with Articles 2, 6, 21, 26, 28, 126, 128 and 151 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda. The Court will also handle the case of Okodo Peter vs Electoral Commission, seeking an interpretation as to whether the disqualification of a duly nominated parliamentary candidate on the basis of a conviction that is the subject of a pending appeal violated Articles 28(1), 42 and 126(1) of the Constitution, among other cases. Petitioners and their legal representatives are present in Court

HW Edger Nyakairu, Personal Assistant to the Principal Judge, has called for stronger coordination between courts and prison authorities to reduce prolonged remand, improve case management and safeguard the rights of people in custody. He made the call while delivering a lecture at the Prisons Academy and Training School (PATS) in Luzira during the fifth intake of the Intermediate Command and Staff Course 005/26. Held under the theme, “Judiciary Strategies for Improved Access to Justice for People in Custody,” the lecture brought together 52 senior officers, ranging from Assistant Superintendent of Prisons to Assistant Commissioner of Prisons. These were drawn from various departments and units of the Uganda Prisons Service. HW Nyakairu emphasised that access to justice for people in custody depends on the administrative and legal actions taken throughout the criminal justice process, from arrest to final determination of their cases. Citing figures from 2024, he noted that Uganda’s prison population had exceeded 79,000 inmates, with almost half awaiting trial and facilities operating at nearly three and a half times their intended capacity. He identified prolonged remand as a major contributor to congestion, noting that people facing capital charges spent an average of 17.5 months on remand. He said overcrowding, compounded by staffing constraints, placed considerable pressure on detention facilities and the wider justice system. HW Nyakairu outlined the Judiciary’s interventions to address these challenges, including the multi-agency Prison Decongestion Task Force, which brings together justice-sector institutions to conduct remand audits, identify facilities under pressure and improve case processing. Other measures highlighted included plea bargaining, the Daily Hearing Project to reduce reliance on session-based trials, mobile courts and virtual court proceedings. He noted that video conferencing had been extended to 20 prisons to support court appearances while reducing transport costs and security risks. He also highlighted the role of District Chain-Linked Committees in strengthening coordination among local justice institutions and addressing obstacles to the timely handling of cases. Turning to the responsibilities of prison authorities, HW Nyakairu urged commanders to maintain accurate records of remand prisoners, identify individuals approaching applicable legal deadlines and carefully examine commitment warrants to support accurate sentence computation. He called on officers to ensure the timely production of inmates for physical and virtual court appearances, facilitate access to legal aid providers and judicial review teams, and help detainees obtain information about bail and appeals. HW Nyakairu further emphasised the need to prioritise vulnerable people in custody, including juveniles, older persons and individuals with mental health concerns, to promote fair and timely treatment. During the interactive discussion, participants raised concerns about juvenile offending. Participants also called for stronger traditional African justice systems and greater use of mediation in civil disputes to promote community-based dispute resolution and reduce pressure on formal courts. Among those in attendance was Superintendent of Prisons Peter Nuwagaba, Deputy Commandant of PATS

The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, this morning conducted an ad hoc inspection at Lugazi High Court, where she assessed the progress of election petition hearings and interacted with judicial officers and support staff about their working conditions. She was received by Lady Justice Dr. Winifred Nabisinde, Lady Justice Sarah Langa Siu, the Court’s Assistant Registrar, HW Dorothy Kyampaire among other judicial officers. The Principal Judge said the visit was intended to check on the judges handling election petitions, assess how proceedings were progressing and convey the Judiciary’s appreciation for their service during a demanding period. She commended the host court and registry staff for accommodating the presiding Judges despite limited space, noting that their willingness to share chambers and other facilities demonstrated collegiality and commitment to the administration of justice. Describing the handling of election petitions as a national duty, Justice Abodo thanked the Judges for accepting the assignments alongside their existing workloads. She noted that the outcome of election disputes has a significant bearing on public confidence and stability. The Principal Judge urged the judges to observe the strict timelines governing election petitions. She acknowledged that hearings had started later than anticipated because of funding challenges but reiterated the Judiciary’s commitment to completing the exercise within the prescribed period. She tasked the Court to provide clear updates on the number of petitions being handled to support planning and resource allocation, and to promptly report any matters likely to exceed the two-week allocation. On courtroom management, Justice Abodo urged judicial officers to maintain order, manage attendance within available seating capacity and work closely with security personnel. She noted that the court’s location within a busy market required particular vigilance. She directed that proceedings should not be livestreamed and discouraged the use of phones in court in favour of notebooks. She also emphasised proper witness management to prevent witnesses from listening to one another’s testimony before giving their own evidence. The Principal Judge further urged Judges to manage the heightened emotions that often accompany election disputes while maintaining firm and fair control of proceedings. Turning to judicial wellness, Justice Abodo acknowledged that judges were working beyond normal hours and over weekends to meet the demanding timelines. She nevertheless encouraged them to protect time for rest, adhere to their weekday cause lists and avoid routinely allowing advocates’ emergencies to disrupt court schedules. She encouraged judicial officers to use available wellness facilities and create opportunities to support one another, noting that judicial work can be isolating and emotionally demanding. Justice Abodo also underscored the importance of continuous learning, professional humility and allowing the law to guide the fair determination of disputes. Recognising the contribution of registry and support staff, the Principal Judge said their logistical and administrative support was critical to the election petition exercise. She thanked them for their commitment despite the constraints under which they were working. She also indicated that the Lugazi team would be included in a judicial officers’ group that shares daily devotions, case law and professional experiences to promote learning, collegiality and wellness.During the interaction, staff raised concerns relating to welfare, working conditions and logistical challenges. The Principal Judge appreciated their candour and pledged to follow up on the issues and provide feedback. She also indicated that she would undertake more field visits to better understand conditions at court stations

Pupils from Ribbon Primary School today visited Kiboga High Court for an educational engagement on the role of the Judiciary in administering justice. The Assistant Registrar, HW Hellen Atigo, guided the pupils through the functions of the three arms of Government; the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, explaining how each contributes to the governance of Uganda. She highlighted the Judiciary’s responsibility to interpret the law, administer justice and resolve disputes in accordance with the law. She also explained its role in protecting rights and promoting accountability. HW Atigo encouraged the pupils to embrace fairness and respect for the rule of law from an early age, emphasising the importance of these values in their daily lives. Turning to career aspirations, she urged pupils interested in becoming lawyers and judges to work hard, remain disciplined and commit to their studies. She noted that the legal profession requires academic excellence alongside integrity, impartiality and a strong sense of responsibility. The visit offered the pupils first-hand exposure to the work of the courts, connecting their classroom learning with the responsibilities of public institutions and encouraging them to pursue their ambitions

The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, has conducted ad hoc inspections at Njeru Magistrates Court in Buikwe District, Jinja High Court and Katende Magistrates Court in Jinja District, to assess case management, working conditions and staff welfare. The visits provided an opportunity for judicial officers and support staff to engage directly with the Judiciary’s leadership on progress and priorities for improving service delivery. At Njeru Magistrates Court, Magistrates HW Egessa Wilberforce Masaaka and HW Kibeedi Peace welcomed the visit, describing it as reassuring and an opportunity for leadership to appreciate conditions at the station. HW Egessa highlighted limited chambers and registry space, as well as inadequate shelving and storage for files and exhibits. He requested for air conditioning, desktop computers, additional staff and transport support to facilitate court operations, noting that staff transfers had increased pressure on the remaining personnel. He also emphasised the importance of motivation, regular feedback and field visits in supporting staff performance and improving working conditions. At Jinja High Court, Justice Lawrence Gidudu thanked the Principal Judge for the visit and commended HW Fiona Sheila Angura, the Jinja Chief Magistrate also Acting Assistant Registrar, for transforming the registry. Justice Gidudu raised concerns about cases involving alleged fraudulent powers of attorney purportedly notarised abroad, including in the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. He noted that the Court lacked the capacity to verify such documents. The Judge highlighted concerns about the credibility of some recruited mediators and sentencing disparities, noting that inmates held in the same prison compare sentences imposed for similar offences. The court reported a backlog of approximately 1,000 cases, including more than 500 criminal matters, and requested a dedicated criminal sessions plan to support backlog reduction and prison decongestion. The discussions also highlighted difficulties faced by convicted persons who lack advocates to pursue appeals. Staff requested additional space for the High Court and Chief Magistrates Court, which share premises, and completion of the generator installation to provide backup during power outages. At Katende Magistrates Court, HW Zako Dorcas and HW Kintu Christine welcomed the Principal Judge and described the visit as a source of motivation and an indication of management’s concern for staff welfare. HW Zako highlighted staffing constraints, noting that process servers were undertaking additional administrative duties, a clerk serving multiple courts was available only two to three days a week, and a police prosecutor attended twice a week. She also requested additional furniture for staff and court users, together with more storage equipment for files. The team called for further staff training and public sensitisation on the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS). They reported that some court users from rural communities struggled to understand the new processes and sometimes failed to return. Staff also requested uniforms for process servers, explaining that the absence of uniforms or clear identification made it difficult for the public to recognise them as court officials. Throughout the visits, Lady Justice Abodo recognised the contribution of registry and support staff, emphasising that effective registry operations are critical to the smooth functioning of courts. She thanked the teams for their resilience and commitment despite the constraints and assured them that the Judiciary would continue to address the administrative, logistical, staffing and welfare concerns raised

The Court of Appeal is set to conduct a two-day civil appeals session in Kampala, during which 23 matters are scheduled to be heard. The session will run from tomorrow, Tuesday, October 20, to Wednesday, October 21, 2026. Proceedings will be presided over by different panels of Justices, comprising Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, Justice Christopher Gashirabake, Lady Justice Margaret Tibulya and Lady Justice Cornelia Kakooza Sabiiti. According to the cause list signed by HW Natukunda Janeva (Deputy Registrar, Court of Appeal), appeals scheduled for hearing cover a wide range of civil matters, including land, breach of contract, claims for damages, wrongful termination, mortgage, defamation, compensation and divorce, among others. The session is part of the Court’s ongoing efforts to expedite the hearing of cases, reduce case backlog, and enhance access to justice