KAMPALA-President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commended the Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny Dollo for his noble efforts which have greatly contributed to the transformation of the Judiciary.
In his message delivered by Prime Minister Rt Hon Robbinah Nabbanja, Museveni noted that he learnt that in this drive of changing the Judiciary, the Judicial officers are being considerate to the needs, aspirations and values of the people of Uganda.
“The Government remains committed to supporting the Judiciary in improving access to justice by promoting user-friendly Courts, prompt disposal of cases, and quick dispensation of justice. We shall work tirelessly with all of you to ensure that justice is administered without delay.”
He called upon the judges to protect lives and property in execution of their roles without forgetting the vulnerable groups of women and Children who need extra protection.
“ I congratulate you upon successfully concluding the 26th Annual Judges Conference. I have no doubt that as Judges of the land, you have been refreshed and equipped to continue administering justice to the wanianchi.”
The Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny Dollo reported that in the previous New Law Year, the Judiciary’s performance has greatly improved amidst a number of challenges.
“The Fourth Annual Performance Report, for F/Y 2023/2024 was published and distributed to the stakeholders in fulfillment of the requirements of the law, on 10th October 2024.During FY 2023/2024 the Courts completed 239,431 cases out of a total caseload of 401,269 cases, registering a disposal rate of 59.67%.”
That the average time taken from filing to disposal of cases in days reduced from 1,074 days (3 years) in FY 2021/22 to to 891 days (2.5 years) in FY 2023/24.
“Capacity building of Judicial Officers, the Judiciary has continued to prioritize capacity building of its staff through training of Judicial Officers in relevant fields and emerging trends that in order to enhance the performance of the Judiciary and the Courts, there is need to recruit more Judicial officers, need to facilitate the operationalization of the new High court circuits as well as enhancing the civil jurisdiction of Magistrates Courts.”
Hon. Nobert Mao the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs congratulated the Chief Justice and his team for ensuring that they keep alive the constitutional spirit of checks and balances.
“On Monday, the Order Paper will have the Alternative Despite resolution policy. Many people think these cases are about parties and the lawyers which is wrong.”
He pointed out that In most cases the judges get involved because of disagreement among the citizens of Uganda and therefore Ugandans should change the angle through which they see such matters.
