Bushenyi High Court Circuit on Thursday convened a Regional Coordination Committee (RCC) meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration, cooperation, and communication among justice sector stakeholders within the region.
Chaired by Resident Judge Justice Amos Kwizera, the meeting brought together representatives from the five districts under the circuit. Participants included Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), District Chairpersons (LC5), Regional Police Commanders (RPCs) for both police and prisons, Resident Internal Security Officers (RISOs), judicial officers, officials from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), lawyers, court bailiffs, and officers from community service, probation, and welfare departments.
In his opening remarks, Justice Kwizera commended the stakeholders for their consistent engagement and dedication to the RCC framework, describing it as a crucial platform for dialogue and joint problem-solving in the justice sector.
“These meetings provide us with an opportunity to exchange ideas, identify challenges, and collectively find solutions that improve the administration of justice within the region,” he said.
He also announced that the recently commissioned Sheema Chief Magistrate’s Court had officially commenced operations.
He emphasized that the new court would improve access to justice, reduce case backlog, and bring judicial services closer to the people.
Participants lauded the Judiciary for maintaining regular engagement with justice actors across the circuit.
Among the key issues raised were the need for public sensitization, especially through radio talk shows on SACCO loan management and court procedures, and the importance of court bailiffs operating strictly within the law when executing court orders.
There were also calls for state agencies to uphold court decisions to avoid unnecessary confrontations.
Stakeholders agreed on the temporary facilitation of a mediator, using existing resources, to support the court’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) initiatives.
The meeting was moderated by Deputy Registrar of the High Court, HW Goretti Arinaitwe, who emphasized the importance of leveraging local platforms for legal education.
It was resolved that stakeholders make use of airtime provided by RDCs on local radio stations to enhance public awareness of legal rights and court processes.
Participants expressed appreciation for the Judiciary’s commitment to inclusive dialogue, noting that such engagements have significantly enhanced the delivery of justice across the circuit.
