Judiciary Brings Services Closer to Public at Kololo Court Open Day

The Judiciary recently convened its Third National Court Open Day at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, bringing together judicial officers, legal professionals, civil society, students, and the public. The event, themed “Delivering Inclusive, Efficient and Effective Justice,” provided a platform for citizens to learn about the justice system, interact with officials, and voice concerns regarding access to justice.

Court sittings in Kampala were temporarily suspended to allow judicial staff to participate, though registries remained operational. Deputy Chief Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi emphasized the Judiciary’s commitment to improving court infrastructure for inclusivity, noting advancements in accessibility features like lifts and accessible routes in facilities such as the Mbarara Court of Appeal.

Technological advancements are also a key focus for the Judiciary, with digital case management systems and other tools being implemented to streamline access to court files, hearings, and case administration, aiming to reduce delays and simplify processes.

Further efforts to decentralize justice include the establishment of new High Court circuits in locations like Kasese and Kitgum, bringing legal services closer to remote communities. Mobile courts and specialized transport, such as a motorboat serving island communities near Kalangala, are also being utilized to reach citizens in hard-to-access areas.

Despite these initiatives, the Judiciary faces ongoing financial constraints that impact its capacity to expand services. Deputy Chief Justice Kawumi acknowledged these limitations while reaffirming the commitment to ensuring that justice remains accessible to all.

The open day offered the public direct engagement with judges and magistrates, alongside exhibition booths explaining court operations. For the Judiciary, it served as a demonstration of reforms designed to make the justice system more responsive and accessible, highlighting the necessity of investing in infrastructure, technology, and systems to achieve inclusive and effective justice.

Source: Nile Post