IGP Byakagaba commits to strengthening ODPP-CID collaboration in Anti-Corruption fight
Inspector General of Police, Abas Byakagaba, has reaffirmed the Uganda Police Force’s commitment to bolstering collaboration between the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) in the ongoing fight against corruption.
Byakagaba made this pledge during the opening of the annual ODPP-CID coordination meeting at the CID headquarters in Kibuli.
In his address at the two-day event, IGP Abas Byakagaba stressed the critical need for enhanced coordination between the ODPP and CID, particularly in addressing corruption, which he cited as one of the most significant barriers to justice in Uganda.
Byakagaba underscored the importance of both entities aligning their efforts to ensure that investigations and prosecutions work seamlessly to curb the growing menace of corruption.
“Corruption remains a key obstacle to our justice system. It is crucial that we work closely to ensure that cases are fully investigated and prosecuted without hindrance. Our focus must be on efficiency and transparency,” Byakagaba emphasized.
The Director of CID, Tom Magambo, echoed Byakagaba’s remarks, emphasizing that corruption and impunity have eroded the public’s trust in the justice system. He highlighted the need for proactive measures to restore confidence and ensure justice is served.
“We must address the root causes of corruption and impunity within our systems. These are not just moral issues but also developmental ones that undermine Uganda’s socio-economic growth,” Magambo stated.
Participants at the meeting voiced concerns about various structural and legislative challenges they face. Among the issues raised were the need to review certain laws that hinder effective case management and justice delivery.
The Director of Public Prosecutions, Jane Frances Abodo, urged attendees to leverage the knowledge and insights from the meeting to improve coordination between investigators and prosecutors.
“We must use this opportunity to iron out the gaps that have previously affected our operations. Better collaboration means a more effective justice system,” Abodo said.
The event, held under the theme "The Contribution of the ODPP and CID to the Socio-Economic Transformation of Uganda," is set to conclude with a keynote address by President Yoweri Museveni. Attendees are expected to continue discussions in a closed-door session aimed at developing actionable strategies to enhance justice delivery.
The collaboration between the ODPP and CID has been under scrutiny in recent years due to persistent delays in prosecuting high-profile cases, particularly those involving corruption and abuse of office.
Public confidence in Uganda’s criminal justice system has been shaken by prolonged investigations and perceived leniency toward suspects, especially in cases involving powerful individuals. This meeting comes at a time when there is growing pressure on law enforcement and prosecution bodies to address these concerns and restore trust in the system.
