Court of Appeal Tackles 25 Criminal Cases in New Session

The Court of Appeal in Kampala has initiated a dedicated session to address a backlog of criminal appeals, with 25 cases slated for hearing. The session, which began on September 15, 2026, is scheduled to conclude on September 17, 2026.

Presiding over the proceedings is a distinguished panel of three Justices: Lady Justice Hellen Obura, Justice Jesse Byaruhanga Rugyema, and Lady Justice Cornelia Kakooza Sabiiti.

The cause list, meticulously prepared by the Registrar of the Court of Appeal, Allen Rukundo Owembabazi, reveals that murder appeals constitute the largest segment, with 12 cases on the docket. Following closely are six appeals concerning aggravated defilement and two related to rape.

Additional cases include one appeal each for aggravated robbery and obtaining money by false pretence. The session will also hear a State appeal challenging an acquittal for rape, as well as an appeal against a life sentence for aggravated defilement.

Appellants are participating virtually from Luzira Upper Prison and Isimba Prison Farm, supported by their legal counsel. This session is a key component of the Court of Appeal’s strategy to expedite case disposal, reduce the overall backlog, and improve access to justice for all.

The Justices are expected to thoroughly review the grounds of appeal presented by both the appellants and the State before rendering their decisions in these critical matters.

Source: Nile Post