Government Commits to Fast-Tracking Judiciary Bill
Hon. Kahinda Otafiire, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
Kampala: Government undertook to fast-track the enactment of the Administration of the Judiciary Bill. This is the piece of legislation which seeks to provide for and strengthen the independence of the Judiciary. This message was conveyed by Hon. Kahinda Otafiire, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs during a press conference held this afternoon at the Media Centre in Kampala.
He said government is committed to addressing the issues of striking judicial officers but in a phased manner. "The government commits to provide security, transport and office equipment first", Hon. Otafiire said.
He added that within a few weeks, the Judiciary Bill will be tabled on the floor of Parliament.
He said this will be done to enhance Judiciary's administration as "another arm of government".
Minister Otafiire revealed that Cabinet had directed Ministry of Public Service to develop a comprehensive pay policy to harmonize salaries across government.
He further appealed to Judiciary staff to be patient up to October to sort out the matter of salary review. "The President directed the Ministry of Public Service to harmonize the emoluments of all public servants to solve and prevent more disparities."
The Minister further noted that the government will consider "the principles of equity,affordability, sustainability and adequacy."
He appealed to striking judicial officers under their association Uganda Judicial Officers Association to call off the industrial action in the interest of administering justice to the public.
The ongoing judicial officers' strike has forced the Police to adopt emergency tactics to avoid likely overcrowding in police cells.
According to Deputy Police Spokesperson, Mr Luke Owoyesigire, they have resorted to awarding quick bonds for simple cases and setting up special courts for more serious cases.
Posted 4th, September 2017
