JUDICIARY Latest Features

The Principal Judge, Dr. Flavian Zeija presided over the Jinja High Court Open Day.

Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the event was held under the theme: "A People-Centered Approach to Justice."

The Principal Judge inspected stalls set up by different justice actors, including the Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Services, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and Uganda Law Society, among others.

Mr. Deo Akugizibwe, a Communications Officer, sensitized the public about different court processes and initiatives in the Judiciary to improve access to justice.

The event was attended by various stakeholders, including religious leaders and members of the public.

Notably present were Rev. Canon James Kivunike from the Anglican Church of Uganda, East Busoga Diocese and Mediator Jinja High Court, and Dr. Balonde Kassim Idd(Deputy District Kadhi, Jinja Uganda Muslim Supreme Council Jinja District).

The Open Day was moderated by HW Watyekere George Wakubona, Magistrate Grade One in charge of Bugembe Magistrate's Court, and Mr. Akugizibwe.

Earlier, while launching a Video Conferencing System at the Court, the Principal Judge expressed gratitude to UNDP and its partners for supporting the Judiciary's efforts in automating court processes to promote human rights and access to justice.

Dr. Zeija highlighted that the Judiciary had adopted ICT solutions to address delays and case backlogs. He explained that the Video Conferencing System enabled remote testimonies and hearings, reducing the need to transport witnesses or prisoners. He noted that this technology was expected to improve access to justice regardless of location.

The PJ emphasized the importance of embracing ICT across society, noting that both the government and private sector must adopt these technologies to remain competitive globally.

He thanked UNDP for supporting the installation of video conferencing systems in courts and prisons, building staff capacity, and funding benchmarking trips. He also reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to expanding these initiatives, noting that nine High Court circuits and their prisons still lacked videoconferencing systems.

He expressed hope that with continued support from the government and development partners, more progress would be made.

Lady Justice Dr. Winfred Nabisinde, Head of Jinja High Court Circuit, noted that the video conferencing system, installed at the High Court and Jinja prisons, connected the courts to prisons and other court stations globally.

She emphasized that the system helped reduce delays caused by transporting accused persons to court and improved case management.

The Judge also highlighted the system's benefits, including enhanced security, convenience, and reduced costs for inmate transport.

Lady Justice Nabisinde expressed gratitude to the UNDP for funding the system and to the Principal Judge for officiating the launch, pledging to ensure the system was fully utilized.

Mr. Ian King, the Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP, congratulated the Judiciary for its advancements in using digital tools to enhance performance in implementing the Video Conferencing Systems.

He noted that the system launched was one of six installations supported by UNDP, with others in Masaka, Gulu, Mbale, Mubende, and Mukono courts and prisons. These installations aimed to improve access to justice and enhance the Judiciary's ability to serve efficiently, aligning with Uganda’s Digital Transformation Roadmap.

He commended the Judiciary's efforts in integrating digital technologies to address barriers like distance, time, procedural complexities, and costs, promoting fair and timely justice.