The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, has called for strengthened coordination among justice sector actors, targeted refresher training, and improved staff wellness to enhance service delivery within the Judiciary, following an adhoc visit to the High Court and Chief Magistrate’s Court in Mukono this morning.
During the visit to the Mukono High Court on Friday, Lady Justice Abodo said the purpose of her engagement was to observe court sessions, familiarize herself with the working conditions of judicial officers, and hear first-hand the challenges affecting service delivery.
She noted that a recurring concern raised during interactions relates to the production of witnesses by State Attorneys.
According to her observations, some witnesses presented in court are either inadequately prepared or not critical to advancing cases. She proposed high-level engagements with Senior State Attorneys to strengthen coordination and ensure that prosecutors clearly understand the expectations of the Judiciary.
Lady Justice Abodo further emphasized the need for targeted refresher trainings involving judges, police investigators, and State Attorneys, stating that such interventions would help address gaps in investigations and prosecution.
She underscored the importance of aligning police investigations and prosecutorial work with judicial standards and expectations to support effective case management and timely disposal of cases.
Lady Justice Abodo assured judicial officers that she would continue making regular visits to the Circuit, adding that staff wellness remains a key priority. She encouraged officers to prioritize their health, noting that a healthy workforce is essential for improved productivity and efficient service delivery.
She further emphasized that wellness facilities such as the gym should remain accessible at all times to promote healthy lifestyles among staff.
She also acknowledged the unique challenges faced in handling cases involving communities from the islands, particularly due to transport difficulties and limited social amenities.
She noted that the Judiciary would consider organizing special court sessions dedicated to handling such matters to improve access to justice for affected communities.
“The purpose of my visit is to observe court sessions, familiarize myself with the working conditions of judicial officers, and hear first-hand the challenges affecting service delivery,” she said.
Judicial officers at Mukono High Court highlighted several operational challenges, including the high costs involved in handling cases involving witnesses and accused persons from distant islands.
They recommended that such matters be specially cause-listed to allow for better planning and resource allocation.
They also raised concerns regarding the need for refresher courses for State Attorneys, citing delays caused by poorly prepared witnesses and incomplete investigations.
Additional challenges included delays in accessing police files and limited office space.
The officers further informed the Principal Judge that, as part of their wellness initiatives, they conduct aerobics sessions every Tuesday and Thursday.
At the Mukono Chief Magistrate’s Court, Lady Justice Abodo invited magistrates and staff to join the aerobics sessions held at the High Court in Mukono on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
She encouraged active participation in physical exercise, noting that wellness activities improve productivity, teamwork, mental health, and overall efficiency at the workplace.
Lady Justice Abodo also observed that inadequate office space continues to hinder the performance and effectiveness of judicial officers and court staff.
Justice Stephen Mubiru, Head of the Mukono High Court Circuit, appreciated the Principal Judge for the visit, noting that the interaction had greatly encouraged officers.
“We appreciate the gesture you have made. We are encouraged by your visit and we hope for more of such engagements,” he said.
The Principal Judge also engaged magistrates on the readiness of lower courts to receive files from the High Court.