The Tororo Chief Magistrate’s Court, in partnership with the International Justice Mission (IJM), has concluded a three-day sensitization program aimed at strengthening grassroots justice systems in Tororo District.
The training brought together 288 Local Council (LC) Chairpersons from Magola, Nagongera, Malaba, and Osukuru sub-counties. Participants were equipped with practical knowledge on the operations, jurisdiction, and limitations of Local Council Courts.
The initiative sought to enhance the capacity of LC leaders to effectively manage community disputes, while reinforcing their role in preventing gender-based violence and supporting the broader administration of justice.
During the sessions, facilitators provided guidance on the legal framework governing LC Courts. Key topics included jurisdictional boundaries, handling of serious offences such as defilement and murder, and the courts’ role in land dispute resolution.
Participants raised critical concerns, including whether LC Courts can mediate serious criminal cases, the extent of their authority in land division, and the issue of remuneration for LC leaders serving in quasi-judicial roles.
A major highlight of the engagement was the emphasis on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms. Chief Magistrate Irene Nambatya underscored the importance of mediation, plea bargaining, and the Small Claims Procedure in promoting timely and amicable resolution of disputes.
She encouraged LC Chairpersons to champion ADR approaches within their communities as a strategy to reduce case backlog and promote social harmony.
The training was facilitated by Chief Magistrate Nambatya alongside Iradukunda Elijah, both of whom guided participants on practical aspects of justice administration at the community level.
Participants commended the initiative, noting that the knowledge gained would enhance their effectiveness in dispute resolution and strengthen collaboration between community structures and formal justice institutions.
