DCJ Outlines Judiciary's Efforts to Address Public Concerns in Delivery of Justice
Deputy Chief Justice of Uganda, Hon. Justice Richard Buteera
The Deputy Chief Justice of Uganda, Hon. Justice Richard Buteera has highlighted the importance of an efficient and effective justice system in promoting public trust and confidence.
This was on Friday while delivering a Keynote Address, on behalf of the Chief Justice, on the "Strategies in the Judiciary to Address Public Concerns in Regard to Delivery of Quick Justice" at the ongoing Public Service Leaders' Retreat at the National Leadership Institute (NALI).
The Deputy Chief Justice identified several strategies to address public concerns, including the adoption of technology, Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms and strengthening of judicial accountability. "The Judiciary recognizes that it has a duty to deliver fair decisions expeditiously," he said. "However, we acknowledge that more needs to be done to address the backlog of cases and ensure timely disposal of justice."
Justice Buteera shared that in December 2015 when the Chief Justice, out of the concern for delays in the delivery of justice ordered and a court case census was carried out. "It was established that 114,809 cases were pending in the Judiciary. 25% of these (28,864 Cases) were backlog, which means they were pending in court for more than 2 years."
Adding that since then, the Judiciary has stepped up efforts in fighting Case Backlog. "We have ensured progressive improvement in Court Performance over the years with increased staffing. The Magistrates Courts progressively completed more cases than previously, as follows: 119,919 cases in FY 2020/21; 168,316 cases in FY 2021/22 and 202,460 cases in FY 2022/23. The High Court's performance was equally outstanding as follows: 35,350 cases were completed in FY 2020/21;36,766 cases in FY 2021/22 and 62,702 cases in FY 2022/23. We have stepped up efforts in fighting Case Backlog. As a result, we have steadily reduced case backlog from 48,696 cases in 2020, to 43,161 in 2023," he said.
Justice Buteera noted that public trust in the judiciary had increased from 47% in 2017to 69% in 2022 according to the National Governance Peace and Security Survey. Adding that public satisfaction with justice services has also increased from59% to 64.4% during the same period. "This is encouraging news for which we are glad. The Judiciary will continue to improve its image through offering timely, quality and corrupt-free services to our people."
As such, the Deputy Chief Justice Buteera noted that the judiciary has made significant progress in recent years, including the establishment of specialized courts, sensitization of the public of their rights and obligations and the implementation of a case management system.
He appealed to all stakeholders for support in order for the Judiciary to achieve its vision of Justice for All. "We cannot do this alone. We need the support of other organs of the State to move forward in what we do. Please comply with Article 128 (3) of the Constitution which provides that; "All organs and agencies of the State shall accord the Courts such assistance as maybe required to ensure the effectiveness of Courts", he said.
The Deputy Chief Justice highlighted several challenges facing the Judiciary, including shortage of judicial officers and other essential personnel, limited public participation and little confidence in justice institutions, Corruption and bribery and inadequate infrastructure.
To address these challenges, Justice Buteera who also doubles as the Chairperson of the Case Management Committee proposed several strategies, including the recruitment of more judicial officers and staff, construction and renovation of court buildings, continuous legal education and training for judicial officers, encouragement of Alternative Dispute Resolution methods. Adding that the Judiciary Disciplinary Committee complements the efforts of the Judicial Service Commission in the fight against corruption and abuse of office.
The Judiciary Permanent Secretary/Secretary to the Judiciary, Dr Pius Bigirimana, who was in attendance, made a presentation on the “Role of Administration Function in the Management of Public Service”
His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda, appreciated the keynote address by the DCJ. He said that it is good that the Judiciary has embraced ADR which is appreciated by all Ugandans.
He underscored the importance of complementarity between the Arms of Government and emphasized that the Executive will continue to support the Judiciary bearing in mind all other priority areas that propel social economic transformation.
Posted 13th, July 2024
