JUDICIARY Latest Features

Participants at the Moroto High Court Open Day

Today, Hon. Dr. Flavian Zeija, the Principal Judge, presided over the Court Open Day at Moroto High Court, marking a significant step in enhancing transparency and fostering engagement between the judiciary and the public.  

During the event, Dr. Zeija inspected the guard of honor, planted a tree to commemorate the day, and watered the "Justice Tree" he had planted during the court's launch on May 8, 2023. He also toured various stalls set up by justice sector actors.  

During a meeting with judicial officers from the Moroto High Court circuit, concerns such as a lack of vehicles and insufficient support staff were highlighted. The Principal Judge assured the officers that he would raise these issues with Top Management and expressed his commitment to revisiting the courts in the area next year. He also urged them to voice their concerns at the upcoming Magistrates' Conference.

In his address to participants, Dr. Zeija expressed his gratitude to the Resident Judge, Lady Justice Mary Ikit, and her team for organizing the event. He noted, "It's been two years since we operationalized this High Court Circuit. On May 8, 2023, I presided over its official launch. I'm here today to interact with you and gather feedback on how this circuit and the judiciary, in general, have been serving the people here."

He underscored the importance of Court Open Days in demystifying judicial processes, enhancing public engagement, and promoting transparency and accountability. Dr. Zeija also called on judicial officers to uphold best practices, including zero tolerance for corruption, certainty of hearing dates, timely case disposal, delivering judgments and rulings within 60 days, providing certified copies of proceedings promptly, promoting ADR mechanisms, and engaging in community sensitization.

He also shared plans to build the capacity of Local Council courts through initiatives like cultural mediation. He added, "This approach is working well in Kenya, and we aim to test it in the Karamoja, Acholi, and Lango regions."

Lady Justice Mary Ikit described the day as an opportunity for public interaction, stating, "This initiative helps us better understand the needs of the public and strengthens our relationship with the community." She thanked local justice actors for their collaboration and highlighted the reduction in case backlog within the circuit. She concluded by appreciating local leaders and the public for their active participation, urging continued teamwork.  

The Assistant Registrar, HW Mubiru Nassif Umar, expressed his gratitude to the Principal Judge for his continued support, saying, "You launched these court years ago, and now you are back for this Open Day. We do not take this for granted." He provided updates, including progress on processing the court's land title and praised the management for increasing judicial staff in the circuit.  

Mr. Ismail Muhammad, the Mayor of Moroto District, requested the establishment of a High Court in Kotido District to improve access to justice. Meanwhile, LC III Chairperson Mr. James Aleper applauded the initiative and suggested training for local council leaders to support justice delivery.  

The event, held under the theme "A People-Centered Approach to Justice," brought together judicial officers, political, religious and administrative leaders, and representatives from various justice institutions, including the Uganda Law Society, the Judicial Service Commission, and the Uganda Human Rights Commission.  

The event was moderated by Communications Officer Deo Akiguzibwe, who informed participants about Judiciary initiatives such as Mediation, Plea Bargaining, and the Small Claims Procedure.