The Chief Justice of Uganda, Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, has urged Magistrates to uphold integrity and accountability in their work as the country continues to strengthen its judicial system. Speaking during the Annual Registrars and Magistrates Conference held in Kampala, Justice Owiny-Dollo emphasized the critical role Magistrates play in shaping public trust in the Judiciary.
Addressing attendees, the Chief Justice warned against corruption, stating that unethical practices undermine the Judiciary’s credibility. He reminded Magistrates that they are the face of the justice system, and their actions significantly influence how the institution is perceived. Owiny-Dollo encouraged them to take pride in their responsibilities, highlighting their duty to serve not just the Judiciary but the people of Uganda.
Reflecting on achievements within the Judiciary, Justice Owiny-Dollo noted a remarkable increase in the number of Magistrates, growing from 100 in 2020 to over 586 in 2024. He attributed this growth to the successful implementation of the Judiciary’s Strategic Plan Five and increased budgetary support, which rose from UGX 199 billion to over UGX 300 billion during his tenure. These resources have facilitated the recruitment of additional judicial officers, enhancing the system’s capacity to deliver justice.
Despite these advancements, the Chief Justice expressed concerns about persistent challenges, particularly the backlog of cases and delays in the judicial process. He called on Magistrates to focus on efficiency, cautioning against corrupt practices and reminding them of the far-reaching consequences such actions could have on individuals, families, and the justice system as a whole.
Justice Owiny-Dollo raised concerns over declining performance among Magistrates, questioning how efficiency had not improved despite the increase in personnel. He urged them to make better use of tools like the Bail Guidelines, ensuring balanced consideration of arguments from all parties. He stressed the importance of providing clear and justifiable reasons when granting or denying bail.
Additionally, he highlighted the proposed Magistrates Grade One Bill 2024, which aims to enhance the monetary jurisdiction of Magistrates. The bill would allow Grade One Magistrates to handle cases involving sums of up to UGX 100 million, thereby reducing the burden on higher courts and addressing case backlog.
Justice Owiny-Dollo reminded Magistrates that career growth within the Judiciary is attainable through consistent good conduct, with opportunities to rise to positions as high as the Supreme Court. Using a phone analogy, he compared the functionality of a judicial system to the software of a phone, emphasizing that its effectiveness depends on the competence and integrity of its officers, not merely the physical structures.
He also urged Magistrates to stand firm in their decision-making, resist intimidation, and adhere to their oath to deliver justice without fear or bias.
Lady Justice Damalie Lwanga, Director of the Judicial Training Institute, called for separate conferences to address the unique challenges faced by Registrars. She emphasized the need for dedicated discussions on their concerns and requested additional funding for such initiatives. The Chief Justice responded with openness to dialogue while encouraging collaboration among all judicial officers.
The conference brought together Magistrates and Registrars from across Uganda, serving as a platform for sharing experiences, networking, and addressing pressing issues within the Judiciary. Lady Justice Lwanga commended the Chief Registrar, Sarah Langa Siu, and other contributors for their efforts in organizing the event.
Justice Owiny-Dollo concluded by reiterating his commitment to advancing the Judiciary’s mission and encouraging judicial officers to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice as he prepares to retire in a year’s time.