Highlights of Tororo High Court Circuit's First Bar-Bench Meeting
Hon. Justice Henry Isabirye Kawesa presiding over the meeting
On Thursday April 25,2024, the Tororo High Court Resident Judge, Hon. Justice Henry Isabirye Kawesa presided over the Court's Bar-Bench meeting attended by both Judicial Officers in the Circuit as well advocates who practice within its jurisdiction.
The Judge noted that such meetings are good for sharing and improving relations between the Bar and the Bench.
He emphasized the need for quality work and encouraged the advocates to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms such as Mediation in the resolution of disputes.
Key issues that emerged included, senior advocates not being given an opportunity to appear first, criminalization of civil matters especially on land issues and lack of a library in court.
The other concerns were; lack of a canteen yet the Court is far from the town center, lack of locus notes from lower courts especially when it's on appeal, and declining to grant mandatory bail.
The Court's Assistant Registrar, HW Hellen Edimu thanked the participants for turning up for the Court’s first Bar-Bench meeting and for their candid contributions.
She noted that the meeting was held to share ideas on how to improve on areas in delivery of justice i.e. to share achievements, identify gaps and craft solutions on how to bridge some of the gaps.
Ms Akech Robina, an advocate in private practice thanked the Judge for convening the meeting noting that it was one of a kind.
It was agreed that the court and advocates would exercise three Cs of cooperation, coordination and communication.
The law on bail be followed and prioritize resolution of criminal cases related to land matters.
Posted 25th, April 2024
