The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, has called on communities in the Teso sub-region to embrace alternative justice systems and stop overwhelming courts with minor disputes, saying reconciliation at community level can help restore harmony and reduce case backlog.
Speaking during the commissioning of the new Serere Chief Magistrate’s Court, Lady Justice Abodo said many cases clogging the justice system are simple assault and neighborhood disputes that can be resolved by elders and local leaders without going to court.
“We are bringing back the African justice system,” she said, adding that not every disagreement should end up before a magistrate. “Those serious cases like murder and violence should come to court, but simple fights and land boundary disputes can be handled in the community.”
She revealed that during a visit to the holding cells before the commissioning ceremony, she found a young mother detained over a fight with a neighbor while her nine-month-old breastfeeding baby remained at home.
“That woman fought a neighbor. Afterwards, you are still going to live together in the same community. The only thing is reconciliation,” she said.
Lady Justice Abodo expressed concern over rising case backlogs, noting that the Soroti High Court currently has over 1,500 cases while Serere Chief Magistrate’s Court has more than 200 pending matters.
She also raised alarm over the increasing number of juveniles in detention, describing the situation as heartbreaking and calling for stronger parenting and community sensitization.
“When children start getting into conflict with the law at a young age, what will happen when they are 20 or 30?” she questioned.
She urged parents to monitor children closely, especially after reports that some minors were being used by adults to commit crimes.
Soroti Resident Judge Boniface Wamala said the Soroti High Court circuit is currently handling 1,510 cases, including 844 civil and 666 criminal matters, with 562 backlog cases, noting that the new court building would improve access to justice by bringing services closer to the people.
“People should be able to attend court and still return to their businesses and gardens without disruption,” he said.
He praised judicial officers in the region for professionalism and discipline, saying efficient service delivery is key to maintaining public trust in the judiciary.
Soroti Chief Magistrate Hilda Bakanasa Walaga highlighted challenges including unstable electricity, lack of internet connectivity and inadequate staffing, adding that Serere Chief Magistrate’s Court currently has 227 pending cases and seven backlog cases, five of which are capital offences.
She also pointed out the absence of facilities for persons with disabilities and inadequate holding cell amenities.
The commissioning was held under the theme “Justice that Listens, Serves and Resolves,” with emphasis on alternative dispute resolution as a key reform to improve service delivery.
