A Panel of three Justices led by the Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Richard Buteera, on Monday kicked off a two-day session at Masindi High Court where 25 cases are going to be handled.
The other justices who are on the panel that is going to hear these cases areLady Justices; Hellen Obura and Irene Mulyagonja.
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The cause list signed by the Court’s Deputy Registrar, HW Lillian Bucyana indicates that of the 25 Appeals to be handled; Murder and Aggravated Defilement, each accounting for seven (7) cases. Aggravated Robbery has four (4) cases, while Rape has three (3) cases.
Two Appellants want the Court to quash their conviction and sentence on combined Murder and Aggravated Robbery charges.
The other case categories on Appeal in this session; Manslaughter and Obtaining Money by Pretense, each with one appeal case
In his remarks during a stakeholders’ meeting, the DCJ noted that the purpose of such meetings is to enhance collaboration in handling and resolving cases.
Recognizing that cases originate from the population, Justice Buteera emphasized the importance of collective work with stakeholders for successful prosecutions.
He reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to professionalism and providing credible judgments, stating, “We shall be professional and give credible judgments because it instils public confidence in the judicial system.”
Justice Buteera also addressed the Judiciary’s plans to enhance access to justice, including increasing the number of Judicial Officers and High Court Circuits, as well as operationalizing regional Courts of Appeal.
He encouraged stakeholders to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods such as Mediation, Plea Bargaining, and Small Claims Procedure, he highlighted their role in expediting fair case resolutions, promoting reconciliation, and fostering public participation.
The Masindi Resident Judge, Justice Isah Serunkuma, thanked the Deputy Chief Justice and the Justices of Appeal for the Session. He said their presence in Masindi gives hope to those awaiting their cases to be heard and the contribution it makes in reducing backlog within the judicial system. He thanked the Court of Appeal for its commendable work.
Justice Serunkuma requested for criminal sessions to address backlog cases at Masindi High Court, underscoring the importance of this initiative in ensuring justice delivery.
The Mayor of Masindi Municipality, Mr Kyomuhendo Busingye Ronald, highlighted the widespread issue of corruption in the country and urged the Judiciary to execute their duties with professionalism and impartiality.
He noted the significant impact of their judgments on the society.
Superintendent of Prisons, Officer in charge Masindi Prison, Mr. Ongala Paterson, said Masindi Prison is grappling with prolonged stays of prisoners on remand, leading to overcrowding. He noted that with a capacity of 266 inmates, the prison currently holds about 1,698 individuals, which has severely strained resources.
Mr. Ongala also emphasized the necessity for Plea Bargaining sessions and the importance of expediting the committal process for capital offenders to the High Court.
The meeting was attended by various stakeholders and Court users including Mr. Ngabirano Emmy (Masindi Resident District Commissioner), and Mr. Byaruhanga Cosmas (Masindi LCV Chairperson) among others.
HW Rukundo Allen Owembabazi (Court of Appeal Ag Registrar), Deputy Registrars Dr. Mushabe Alex Karocho (Private Legal Secretary to the DCJ) and HW Bucyana (Court of Appeal);
HW Kosia Kasibayo (Masindi Chief Magistrate) and HW Gakyaro Allan (Personal Assistant to the DCJ) were also in attendance.
The meeting was moderated by HW Nakitende Juliet, the Assistant Registrar Masindi High Court.
