Deputy Chief Justice Flavian Zeija has urged Ugandans to adopt Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms such as mediation and plea bargaining to promote quicker access to justice and reduce the heavy backlog of cases in courts.
Zeija made the appeal on Wednesday while commissioning the Kamwenge Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kamwenge District.
He said ADR methods like mediation, plea bargaining, and small claims procedures not only ease congestion in courts but also foster reconciliation and harmony within communities.
“I urge the public to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution, mediation, plea bargaining, and small claims procedures,” Zeija said.
“Courts should also engage religious and local leaders in these practices. This will help reduce the backlog of cases and resolve many disputes at the community level before they reach court.”
He further called on judicial officers to sensitize the public about ADR, noting that many people remain unaware that justice can be achieved outside the formal courtroom process.
“Court officials should educate the public about these alternative means of conflict resolution instead of letting people run to court for every dispute,” he added.
At the same event, Kamwenge Chief Magistrate Harriet Atim Okello said recent mediation initiatives have already started yielding results.
“We have started applying mediation methods, and many cases have been concluded successfully through this approach,” she said.
“We encourage residents to always consult our officials for guidance whenever they face conflicts. Mediation saves time and fosters peace among community members.”
The commissioning of the Kamwenge Chief Magistrate’s Court marks another milestone in the Judiciary’s ongoing effort to enhance access to justice and bring legal services closer to the people.