The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has launched a week-long induction programme for 38 newly appointed State Attorneys at Las Vegas Hotel in Mbarara City.
The Director of Public Prosecutions, Lino Anguzu, officially opened the training, welcoming the new prosecutors into public service. He congratulated them on their appointment and emphasized that their role demands not only technical competence but also strong character.
Anguzu urged the attorneys to anchor their work on three core values, devotion to the cause, dedication to duty, and discipline in conduct, encouraging them to uphold these principles in every station they serve and to represent the Office with integrity.
Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, John Baptist Asiimwe, spoke candidly about the realities of prosecutorial work, urging the officers to remain adaptable and committed to continuous learning.
He reminded them that their primary responsibility is to serve victims of crime and that justice must be guided by fairness rather than the pursuit of convictions. He also cautioned against corruption, stressing the importance of integrity at all times.
Permanent Secretary Agnes Khainza acknowledged the support of the International Development Law Organization (IDLO) in facilitating the induction. She highlighted the programme’s role in easing the transition into service and grounding new officers in the values and expectations of the institution.
Khainza further reminded the attorneys of their role as ministers of justice, noting that their decisions and conduct reflect the voice and credibility of the ODPP. She called on them to serve with honour, wisdom, and professionalism.
Representing IDLO, Programmes Manager Samson Asiimwe reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law. He expressed confidence that the new State Attorneys will expand the reach of the ODPP and enhance access to justice across the country, describing the induction as a vital step in preparing them for their responsibilities.
Barbara Kawuma, Head of Field Operations, encouraged the new prosecutors to embrace innovation and effectively utilise technology in executing their duties, while maintaining openness and enthusiasm in their work.
According to Deputy Public Relations Officer Irene Nakimbugwe, the induction has now transitioned into its core training sessions.
“These include an overview of the ODPP’s constitutional mandate and organisational structure, as well as practical and reflective learning on key areas such as human rights-based prosecution, plea bargaining, trial advocacy, quality assurance, service delivery standards, and the conduct of criminal proceedings”. She said.
The programme is expected to equip the new State Attorneys with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding necessary to effectively deliver justice and strengthen the prosecution function in Uganda.
