The Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, on Monday presided over the official launch of the Lugazi High Court Circuit at the court grounds in Lugazi, marking a significant milestone in the Judiciary’s decentralisation drive.
The event, held under the theme “Enhancing Judicial Accountability and Access to Justice,” underscored the Judiciary’s continued commitment to strengthening performance standards and bringing services closer to the people.
The ceremony commenced with a colourful procession through Lugazi Town led by Principal Magistrate Grade One of Lugazi, Ronald Nsobya Kamya, alongside Joan Nakhmista Napokoli and other key stakeholders and members of staff.
Upon arrival at the court grounds, the Chief Justice was received by the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, who headed a distinguished team of judicial officers.
Among them were Resident Judge of the Lugazi High Court Circuit, Lady Justice Dr. Winfred Nabisinde; Head of Mukono High Court, Justice Stephen Mubiru; Registrar High Court, Prossy Katushabe; and the Judiciary Public Relations Officer, James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda.
Zeija proceeded to inspect a guard of honour mounted by the Uganda Police Force. This was followed by a closed-door meeting with judicial officers to deliberate on matters concerning the administration of justice, performance standards, accountability and effective service delivery within the newly operational circuit.
In his remarks, Zeija emphasised the significance of the new circuit in advancing the Judiciary’s reform agenda.
“The establishment of the Lugazi High Court Circuit is a deliberate step toward enhancing judicial accountability and ensuring that justice is not only done, but is accessible to every citizen. We are committed to strengthening performance standards and delivering timely justice to the communities we serve,” he said.
The Lugazi High Court Circuit will oversee several courts within its jurisdiction, including Lugazi Chief Magistrate’s Court, Buikwe Chief Magistrate’s Court and the Magistrates Courts of Njeru, Nyenga, Ngogwe and Buvuma.
The creation of the circuit falls under the broader mandate of the Judiciary of Uganda to expand High Court services across the country in order to reduce case backlog and improve access to justice, particularly in fast-growing districts.
The establishment of the Lugazi High Court Circuit is expected to significantly ease congestion at neighbouring High Court stations, reduce travel distances for court users and improve the timely adjudication of matters.
It aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing judicial accountability, strengthening performance management and ensuring equitable access to justice for communities.
