A criminal session has commenced at the Lugazi High Court, with judicial authorities setting a target of disposing of 52 cases as part of ongoing efforts to reduce case backlog within the circuit.
The session is being presided over by the Resident Judge of Wakiso High Court, Justice Dr Flavia Grace Lamuno. According to the official cause list signed by Dorothy Kyampaire, Assistant Registrar for Lugazi, the cases scheduled for hearing span the period between 2020 and 2024.
The cases listed for disposal include aggravated defilement, murder, rape, and trafficking in children, reflecting the seriousness and range of matters set for hearing during the session.
The proceedings opened with a guard of honour conducted in recognition of the visiting judge, followed by a pre-session meeting that brought together key stakeholders in the justice system within the Lugazi High Court Circuit.
Participants included the Resident Judge, Justice Dr Winifred Nabisinde, the Assistant Registrar, Chief Magistrates and magistrates within the circuit, State Attorneys from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) led by the Assistant DPP, representatives from the Uganda Prisons Service and Uganda Police Force, lawyers on state brief, court assessors, and court staff.
During the engagement, the Resident Judge, Justice Dr Winifred Nabisinde, called on stakeholders to uphold integrity, maintain confidentiality, and avoid corruption, while also protecting the reputation of the justice sector.
Justice Nabisinde urther urged all parties to ensure that the session is completed within the stipulated timeframe and to fully support the visiting judge to facilitate smooth and efficient disposal of cases.
Stakeholders present commended the Judiciary for its continued efforts to bring justice closer to the people and pledged cooperation to ensure the success of the session.
Justice Dr Flavia Grace Lamuno expressed appreciation for the commitment and attendance of stakeholders and encouraged flexibility from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to support timely case disposal.
Justice Lamuno further urged the adoption of key judicial reforms, including plea bargaining, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS), noting that these tools are essential for improving efficiency and ensuring timely delivery of justice.
“I urge all stakeholders to embrace key Judiciary reforms, including plea bargaining, Alternative Dispute Resolution and the use of ECCMIS, as these are critical in improving efficiency and timely delivery of justice,” she said.
The session is being coordinated and moderated by Dorothy Kyampaire, Assistant Registrar, Lugazi.