The Judiciary has stepped up efforts to improve public understanding of justice services through a sensitisation campaign on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms and judicial innovations held at Kiryandongo Chief Magistrates Court and Kigumba Magistrates Court.
The engagement was led by Judiciary Communications Officer Abubaker Kagulire under the Registry of Communications and Public Relations, bringing together court users, advocates, and judicial officers to discuss access to justice and ongoing reforms aimed at improving service delivery.
Speaking during the sessions, the Chief Magistrate of Kiryandongo Chief Magistrates Court, Samson Loum Abiti, encouraged participants to actively engage in the discussions and make use of available justice services and innovations within the Judiciary.
The sensitisation focused on ADR mechanisms such as plea bargaining, mediation, the Small Claims Procedure, and community service, which were presented as efficient alternatives to lengthy court litigation.
Participants were urged to adopt these mechanisms as quicker, more affordable, and less adversarial approaches to resolving disputes, while also helping to reduce case backlog in the judicial system.
Kagulire explained that the Small Claims Procedure allows individuals to resolve disputes at minimal cost and within shorter timelines, while mediation and plea bargaining help promote amicable settlements and preserve relationships within communities.
“These mechanisms are helping the Judiciary reduce case backlog and deliver quicker, fairer, and more affordable justice to the public,” Kagulire said.
He also cautioned court users against engaging unauthorized individuals commonly referred to as “bush lawyers,” advising the public to rely only on officially recognized court staff.
The sensitisation also covered bail application and refund procedures, with participants advised to keep original receipts and ensure that all court-related payments are made through banking channels rather than to individuals.
Kagulire emphasized the importance of accurate information during payment processes to avoid delays or complications when processing refunds.
The Judiciary also highlighted its open-door policy and toll-free call centre services as key platforms through which members of the public can access information, seek guidance, and report grievances.
He noted that plea bargaining continues to play a key role in decongesting prisons and managing increasing caseloads, especially under conditions of limited staffing.
As part of the outreach, participants received Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials designed to simplify court procedures and improve public awareness of justice services.
The sessions concluded with interactive question-and-answer engagements, during which court users raised concerns about delayed judgments, lost bail refund receipts, and the application of plea bargaining in complex cases involving multiple charges.
Participants commended the Judiciary for the initiative, appreciating the efforts of judicial officers and court staff in improving access to justice at the two courts.
Also present at the Kigumba Magistrates Court session was Magistrate Grade I Racheal Bogere, alongside several advocates.