Court Of Appeal to Hear 25 Criminal Appeals in Jinja
10th, November 2025
The Court of Appeal will next week conduct a three-day Criminal Appeals Session in Jinja, during which 25 criminal appeals are scheduled to be heard. The session is slated to run from 15th to 17th December 2025, marking another significant effort by the Court to reduce criminal case backlog and extend appellate services closer to the regions.
A panel of three Justices, Justice Cheborion Barishaki, Lady Justice Margaret Tibulya, and Justice Musa Ssekaana, will preside over the hearings. In preparation for the session, Lady Justice Tibulya yesterday convened a pre-hearing meeting to assess readiness and identify any gaps that could hinder the smooth running of proceedings.
Present at the meeting; HW Nakkazi Juliet Ruth, HW Nabyangwe Annah, and HW Namawejje Hildah, Magistrates Grade I Research attached to the presiding Justices. Also in attendance were Mr. Dennis Rwatooro, Senior Systems Administrator, and Ms. Charity Atwine, a Clerk.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) was represented by Assistant DPP Mr. Semalemba Simon Peter, while all appellants, currently held at Jinja Main Prison, attended virtually, together with their legal representatives. The hybrid engagement ensured full participation while minimising logistical constraints.
According to the causelist issued by the Registrar of the Court of Appeal, HW Rukundo Allen Owembabazi, Murder constitutes the majority of Appeals to be heard, with14 appeals falling under this category. This is followed by eight appeals for Aggravated Defilement. The Court will also handle two Aggravated Robbery appeals and one Rape appeal.
The session also includes two appellants challenging life sentences imposed on murder convictions, underscoring the significance of the upcoming sittings for both the appellants and the justice system.
The Criminal Appeals Session in Jinja forms part of the Judiciary's ongoing efforts to enhance access to justice, expedite hearings, and bring appellate court services closer to the people in line with the institution’s broader reforms.
