Hon Nobert Mao , the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs has assured protection to prosecutors under the Office of Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) to ensure that they perform their duties diligently.
Hon Nobert Mao handing over the car keys to one of the beneficiaries at Kololo Airstrip on Tuesday.
While handing over the 42 new vehicles to the Prosecutors in hard to reach areas , Mao noted that there are some individuals who intimidate prosecutors to drop charges against some individuals after extortion.
“Some people solicit bribes from acused persons , make calls threatening you that they are from State house. If any body tries to interfear with your work claiming that he is from State house , just tell them to put it in writing on headed paper and they can’t since they know the repercussions of interference.”
He advised prosecutors to increase on their working speed at the same time keep a few files on their desk to avoid external interference. “The moment a file lands on your desk ,make recommendations to the DPP and if any body comes to you tell them that you have already forwarded it. Having many files is one of the cause of the bad reputation, why should you have many files at your desk , are u the registry ?” Mao asked
Some of the vehicles which were handed over to the Prosecutors.
On issue of vehicles , the Minister asked all beneficiaries to always seek for permission before using them on non official duties.
“Always be in contact with the undersecretary to be aware of your movements with the vehicle so that you’re not caught off side. She knows that you’re human beings who lose people and have to attend burrials and social events.”
Mao further expressed the need to increase Budget of Uganda Police Force because this is the main factor behind the unsuccessful prosecution of some of the criminal offences. “Police plays a crucial role in case management.”
Lady Justice Frances Abodo , the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) revealed that these vehicles have been given out after serious scrutiny by the top management team.
“We need to secure some funds to get you drivers , but in the meantime those who have permits should get permission from the Undersecretary to drive.”
Abodo also thanked the Minister for always sparing time to work with her office wherever he is called upon.
Ms Kainza Agnes Nzogi , the Undersecretary in the office of the DPP emphasized that with these new vehicles issues like delays at court sessions will be no more because the prosecutors will be the ones to time themselves on when to reach court. “I advise you to include an extra hour wherever your planning your journey to avoid arriving late in court.”
“These vehicles are a motivation to prosecutors in hard to reach areas, it will also reduce on safety risks because before most of them have been moving in public means with people they are prosecuting in court.”
Kainza also warned those who intend to misuse government vehicles that they will be held liable for any damage or loss.
Minister Hon Nobert Mao and ODPP top management praying for the vehicles before being handed over to the Prosecutors.About the vehicles
42 vehicles consists of 40 Double Cabins and 2 station wagons.vehicles procured under Government of Uganda funding to Prosecutors in hard-to-reach areas among others, in order to improve prosecution service delivery.
The Resident State Attorney (RSA) stations that received vehicles include Kisoro, Ntungamo, Amuru/Nwoya, Patongo, Pader, Paida, Moyo, Hoima, Adjumani, Soroti, Kibaale, Kabale, Rukungiri, Mbarara, Buhweju, Abim, Bududa,Nakaseke, Jinja, Iganga, Bulisa, Kapchorwa, Kiruhura, Katakwi, and Kaberamaido. The Regional Offices that received vehicles include Arua, Mbale,Lira, Gulu, Tororo and Masaka.
The departments at the head office that received vehicles include the International Crimes Department, Anti-Corruption Department, Department of Field Coperations and Department of General Case Work.
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