The Resident Judge of the Kabale High Court, Justice Karoli Lwanga Ssemogerere, has commenced hearing cases involving the Attorney General in the Kigezi sub-region, with a total of 20 matters scheduled for determination in a single day.
The cases arise from various individuals and groups seeking compensation, relief, and other legal remedies against different government entities operating within the region.
The sitting has attracted a large number of litigants and legal practitioners from the greater Kabale area.
Among the legal representatives present were firms including Muhangi Justus & Partners Advocates, Beitwenda & Co. Advocates, FIDA-Uganda, Elgon & Co. Advocates, and Bikangiso & Co. Advocates.
Justice Ssemogerere is presiding over the proceedings, with litigants expressing optimism that the concentrated hearing session will help expedite the resolution of long-pending disputes involving government institutions.
The development follows recent reforms spearheaded by the Chief Justice, Flavian Zeija, who established Attorney General chambers in the region as part of efforts to decentralise legal services.
The initiative is intended to bring justice services closer to communities and reduce delays associated with long-distance case handling.
At the launch on April 14, 2026, Justice Zeija described the regional office as a significant milestone in improving access to justice in the Kigezi sub-region.
He noted that previously, the western region relied on a limited number of state attorneys, which often slowed down legal processes.
“Regional centers will reduce challenges related to distance and bureaucratic delays by serving as local legal hubs, offering timely guidance to government entities and ensuring decisions comply with the law,” Zeija said.
He further emphasised that timely filing of cases and consistent participation by state attorneys would help reduce prolonged litigation and protect public resources, while urging government lawyers to uphold professionalism and integrity.
Justice Ssemogerere welcomed the initiative, noting that it would ease pressure on courts and improve efficiency in case handling.
Meanwhile, Deputy Solicitor General Charles Ouma highlighted the practical benefits of the new office, noting that it would eliminate the need for residents to travel long distances to Mbarara for legal services.
“This initiative supports the Ministry’s goal of improving access to justice and will facilitate faster dispute resolution, economic growth, and better community relations,” Ouma said.
The Kabale Regional Office is among five planned under the Ministry’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030, alongside similar offices in Hoima, Masaka, Iganga, and Lira, which are expected to be rolled out during the 2025/2026 financial year.
