MOYO, Uganda — Justice Dr. Farouq Lubega opened the first High Court criminal session in Moyo on Tuesday, a move stakeholders described as a landmark step for judicial access in the West Nile subregion.
The historic session at the Moyo Chief Magistrates Court began with a ceremonial guard of honor mounted by the Uganda Police Force. Lubega met with justice sector officials before the proceedings to outline a strategy for the session, which will focus on clearing a backlog of sexual and gender-based violence cases.
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Lubega set a performance target to resolve 40 of these cases within 30 days. He emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to delivering timely justice, particularly for vulnerable victims.
During a pre-session meeting, the judge directed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to ensure witnesses are summoned promptly. He warned that the court would not tolerate unnecessary adjournments. Lubega also advised defense advocates to prepare thoroughly to provide professional representation for the accused.
Regarding plea bargaining, Lubega cautioned against abusing the system. He said the process should be used only when an accused person genuinely accepts responsibility, rather than as a strategy to secure a lenient sentence or early release.
The opening drew a wide range of officials, including Moyo and Adjumani Chief Magistrate Ojok Tonny Obonyo, resident state attorneys, and representatives from the Uganda Law Society and the Law Development Centre.
Senior Counsel Baku Raphael Obudru used the event to appeal to the judiciary leadership to fast-track the full operationalization of the Moyo High Court. Obudru said a permanent court would bring justice closer to residents and reduce travel burdens for court users.
Lubega urged all legal professionals to demonstrate patriotism and professionalism, calling for a collaborative approach to deliver justice that responds to the needs of the community.
