In a significant move to enhance access to justice and reduce prison congestion, the Principal Judge (PJ)Justice Dr Flavian Zeija, officially launched a Plea Bargaining Camp at Maluku Prison in Mbale yesterday. The initiative aims to expedite case resolution and provide inmates with an opportunity to negotiate their sentences.
The PJ was received by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, Lady Justice Jane Okuo, Lady Justice Margaret Apiny, Justice Lubega Farouq, among other key stakeholders. The Officer in Charge (OC) of Maluku Prison expressed gratitude to the Judiciary for its continued efforts in implementing plea bargaining, which has proven effective in alleviating overcrowding.
"This program has made a remarkable impact by reducing the number of inmates awaiting trial and improving overall access to justice," the OC noted.
The Resident Judge highlighted the success of previous Plea Bargaining camps, adding that 173 inmates had already enrolled in the program at the High Court. This, she noted, was a testament to the growing trust in the initiative.
The DPP commended the Judiciary for integrating plea bargaining sessions into the justice system and urged both prosecutors and defense lawyers to approach the process with flexibility. She emphasized the importance of thoroughly reviewing case files before negotiations commence.
During the launch, a notable case emerged-an inmate who had initially agreed to plea bargaining was released after a review of his file determined there was insufficient evidence to sustain a charge. The DPP praised the process for upholding justice in such cases.
Addressing the inmates, the Principal Judge encouraged them to consider plea bargaining as a means of taking responsibility for their actions while also securing more predictable sentencing outcomes.
"It is always a risk to leave your fate entirely in the hands of the court through a full trial," he cautioned, warning against inmates who act as 'bush lawyers' and mislead others into rejecting the process.
The PJ underscored the benefits of plea bargaining, including reconciliation with victims and reduced legal uncertainties. He urged more inmates to participate, reiterating that the process ensures fairness and efficiency in the administration of justice.
The event, moderated by HW Nanteza Zulaika, Deputy Registrar ADR, and HW Nankya Nusulah, Assistant Registrar of Mbale High Court, marked a milestone in the Judiciary's efforts to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution.
As the Camp commenced, participants expressed optimism about its potential to transform lives. The programme is set to handle both capital and semi-capital offenses, offering inmates a structured avenue to resolve their cases efficiently.
Posted 1st, April 2025
