Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo has urged newly appointed Chief Magistrates and Grade I Magistrates to prioritize alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in their judicial work. At the end of last year, the Judicial Service Commission appointed 12 Chief Magistrates and 39 Grade I Magistrates, who have now served in their stations for three months.
Speaking at the opening of their induction at Collin Hotel in Mukono Central Division on Monday evening, the Chief Justice emphasized that ADR and plea-bargaining initiatives allow both parties to participate in determining the outcomes of their cases.
According to Justice Dollo, last year’s ADR week alone led to the successful resolution of 237 cases. “This was miraculous. I invite you to embrace these initiatives and bring on board other innovations that will promote efficiency in the administration and delivery of justice to our people.”
He also reminded the new magistrates of their crucial role in shaping the judiciary’s future.
“Your task is to position yourself and make your contribution before you come to us seeking recommendations and promotions.” Justice Dollo reaffirmed that the judiciary remains committed to expanding its reach for greater accessibility. As part of this effort, four High Court Circuits that were gazetted in 2023—Kiboga in Buganda, Bushenyi in Ankole, Kitgum in Acholi, and Kasese in Toro—have already been operationalized.
He noted that these courts are now fully functional, and efforts are underway to construct permanent courthouses. “We now plan to operationalize more High Court Circuits at Apac, Wakiso, Entebbe, Kumi, Lugazi, Bugiri, Ntungamo, Patongo, and other deserving places as resources will permit. This will reduce congestion from the center and make court services more expeditious.”
For instance, Dollo explained that if the Wakiso High Court is operationalized, over 1,460 cases from the Civil, Criminal, Land, and Family Divisions would be transferred, while the Entebbe High Court would take on over 527 cases, easing the caseload in Kampala.
The Principal Judge, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, who is also the Deputy Chief Justice-designate, called on the newly appointed magistrates to uphold judicial best practices, including punctuality and commitment to their duties. He urged them to ensure trial and hearing date certainty, timely delivery of judgments within 60 days, prompt provision of certified records of proceedings, and a zero-tolerance approach to corruption.
“Sensitize communities about the services available in courts through radio and TV talk shows and other available mechanisms of communication. Ensure a good ambiance at court, including having organized archives and exhibit rooms. Also, come up with a case management work plan to clear the backlog and manage the workload while giving priority to the oldest cases, fast-tracking delivery of overdue judgments, and strengthening anti-corruption measures.”
The residential induction, which began on March 2, will conclude on March 15. Lady Justice Damalie Lwanga, the Executive Director of the Judicial Training Institute (JTI), highlighted that the induction aims to familiarize judicial officers with the ethics, values, traditions, and corporate culture of the judiciary. “It gives them an opportunity to acquire practical knowledge and the necessary skills to perform their new roles effectively and efficiently.”