Hon. Justice Dr Bamwine addressing a workshop on Implementation of Kampala Declaration on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence
Kampala: The Judiciary is proposing the set up of specialized courts to handle Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) cases. This was revealed by the Principal Judge, Hon.Justice Dr. Yorokamu Bamwine, during a two-day workshop on the Implementation of Kampala Declaration on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence at Imperial Royale Hotel.
He said among the workable strategies and priorities that can protect victims is the establishment of a specialized Sexual Gender Based Violence Court.
"The Judiciary proposes establishing and maintaining special courts for handling Gender Based Violence cases. Special courts guarantee timely and efficient handling of Gender Based Violence cases; and ensure that court officers assigned have specialized training which minimizes stress and fatigue of such officers. Such Courts also foster uniform approaches to the treatment of offenders and the victims of violence, in terms of bail,sentences," Hon. Justice Dr. Bamwine said.
He also proposed the enactment and implementation of a Witness Protection Law. He commended the initiatives of video conferencing and taking evidence by audio visual systems.
Hon. Justice David Batema, who presented a paper on Factors Influencing Court Judgments, Recommendations on Strengthening Jurisprudence on SGBV said there, was need for capacity-building trainings on how to handle SGBV cases.
He added that with gender bench books, Judges now have reference materials to guide in the adjudication of cases.
Speaking on behalf of the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecution, Mr Charles Kaamuli said there is need for reforms that can avert the rampant SGBV cases.
He commended Plea Bargaining for helping in the disposal of SGBV cases. Court Recording and Transcription Systems, Video Conferencing Systems and Screened Court Room Proceedings. These initiatives provide adequate security and protection for survivors of gender based violence.
The Kampala Declaration
The Fourth Ordinary Summit and Special Session on Sexual and Gender Based Violence of 2011 resolved to establish appropriate mechanisms to investigate and prosecute sexual violence crimes, including crimes that amount to genocide, war crimes or crimes against humanity committed in the region.
The meeting also undertook to fast-track the establishment and scale up "Recovery Centres" that provide comprehensive services of free medical, psychosocial, forensic, judicial/prosecution services.
Posted 31st, August 2017
