Kitgum High Court has intensified efforts to reduce case backlog and decongest correctional facilities through a high-impact sensitisation outreach at Kitgum Government Prisons on Tuesday.
The exercise was led by Deputy Registrar Suzanne Aisia Musooli, with participation from Senior Resident State Attorney Patrick Ojara, Magistrate Grade One Boniface Okello, and Counsel Sharon Awili from the Uganda Law Society Legal Aid Clinic.
The delegation was received by the Officer in Charge, SP Robert Oguttu.
SP Oguttu reported that the facility houses 403 inmates and seven children, with 126 individuals committed to the High Court awaiting trial.
During the session, Musooli explained that although formal criminal sessions depend on funding, Resident Judge Philip W. Mwaka has adopted a proactive approach of conducting daily hearings to expedite case disposal.
She emphasized that eligible inmates could resolve cases early through Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms, including Plea Bargaining.
Musooli noted that case scheduling generally follows a “First In, First Out” principle, but priority is given to juveniles, elderly persons, and critically ill inmates in line with judicial policy.
Magistrate Okello provided a practical overview of Plea Bargaining, describing it as a voluntary agreement where an accused person who admits guilt may receive a reduced sentence or lesser charge.
“Plea Bargaining offers certainty,” he said, cautioning that some inmates only consider the option after receiving heavy sentences at trial.
Senior Resident State Attorney Patrick Ojara emphasized that the process is strictly for individuals who voluntarily admit responsibility, urging inmates to maintain realistic expectations in line with established sentencing guidelines.
Counsel Sharon Awili highlighted the crucial role of defence lawyers, particularly where evidence is overwhelming, and noted that a plea agreement may be entered at any stage of proceedings.
The outreach yielded immediate results: of the 126 High Court committals, 70 inmates—61 males and 9 females—voluntarily registered to participate in the Plea Bargaining programme. Musooli committed to fast-tracking these cases, targeting completion by the end of March 2026.
SP Oguttu commended the initiative, describing it as vital for prison decongestion and enhanced access to justice, and cautioned inmates against informal advice from fellow prisoners.
Following the general session, Musooli held a private engagement with female inmates to address gender-specific concerns and pledged a dedicated follow-up visit.
The Court also announced plans to extend similar outreach to inmates at Gulu Main Prison under the jurisdiction of the Kitgum High Court Circuit.
