DPP's Office Bolsters Prosecution Services with 32 New Vehicles

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has significantly boosted its operational capacity with the acquisition of 32 new vehicles. This investment is specifically aimed at improving the mobility of prosecutors and ensuring more effective service delivery, particularly in geographically challenging regions of the country.

Director of Public Prosecutions Lino Anguzu highlighted that the new fleet is a crucial step in improving the working conditions for his staff. He emphasized that better conditions directly translate into improved service for the public, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening the justice system.

Anguzu expressed gratitude to the government, the Ministry of Finance, and Parliament for their roles in securing the necessary funding and waivers, which allowed for this procurement despite existing restrictions on acquiring new government vehicles. He sternly warned the recipients against misusing the vehicles, stressing that they are strictly for official duties and any unauthorized use or disregard for traffic laws will not be tolerated.

The ODPP’s Permanent Secretary, Agnes Kainza Nzogi, noted the substantial improvement in the institution’s vehicle fleet over recent years. She recalled that upon her arrival, the ODPP had fewer than 100 vehicles, many of which were over 15 years old and frequently out of service due to mechanical issues. The office has since procured over 130 vehicles, extending vehicle access to a majority of its field stations.

The new vehicles are earmarked for deployment to remote stations, prioritizing areas where prosecutors face long travel distances or difficult terrain to reach courts. Examples include Maracha, where prosecutors travel 37 kilometers to Koboko, and Kalangala, where state attorneys navigate between islands. Other benefiting areas include Yumbe, Kiryandongo, Kyotera, Mityana, and Kassanda.

Nzogi reiterated the importance of proper vehicle management, including maintenance and security, aligning with government standing orders. The vehicles come with a two-year or 5,000-kilometer maintenance warranty, and officers are urged to adhere to recommended servicing schedules. Assistant DPP Samali Wakoli, speaking on behalf of the recipients, pledged dedication to public service and emphasized the role of the new fleet in improving access to justice. This strategic addition is expected to enhance the efficiency of prosecution services nationwide.

This story was first reported by Nile Post.