Judiciary reshuffles 48 magistrates to improve court efficiency

New judicial appointments and a countrywide reshuffle of 48 magistrates aim to strengthen Uganda’s legal system while combating tardiness and abuse of office in the courts.

KAMPALA, Uganda — The Judiciary has reassigned 48 registrars and magistrates in a nationwide reshuffle designed to improve court efficiency and the delivery of justice.

Acting Chief Registrar Pamella Lamunu Ocaya announced the changes Saturday, stating that the reshuffle aims to enhance court performance and make legal services more accessible to the public. While the transfers for existing officers take effect Jan. 12, the Judiciary also appointed 18 new officers whose deployments are effective immediately.

Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo said the moves provide judicial officers with an opportunity to innovate and improve how they serve the public. He challenged the officers to ensure their stations are left in better condition than they found them and to remain firm against corruption and the abuse of office.

The reorganization comes as the Judiciary faces ongoing challenges with case backlogs. Deputy Chief Justice Flavian Zeija, speaking at a conference in Kampala, urged the officers to ensure the timely administration of justice and warned that laziness among judicial staff would no longer be tolerated.

Zeija also issued a stern warning against the illegal practice of selling bail. He told the gathered magistrates and registrars to desist from corruption, noting that poor work habits and frequent absences from stations cause significant financial strain on low-income citizens seeking help from the courts.

To further address delays, Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo encouraged magistrates to focus on alternative dispute resolution. These methods, which include mediation, plea bargaining and small claims procedures, are seen as vital tools for reducing the number of cases stuck in the court system.