Justice Stephen Musota, the Chief Inspector of Courts, has emphasized the importance of mediation as an effective Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism that complements the formal court process and helps improve access to justice.
Justice Musota made the remarks on Saturday during routine inspection visits to Nakaseke Chief Magistrate’s Court and Semuto Magistrate’s Court, conducted to assess court performance, strengthen judicial accountability, and identify measures to improve the administration of justice.
Addressing judicial officers and court staff at both stations, Justice Musota urged greater use of mediation, noting that it enables parties to resolve disputes more quickly, efficiently, and at a lower cost than conventional litigation.
He said mediation also plays a critical role in reducing the backlog of cases by encouraging amicable settlements before matters proceed to full trial.
The Chief Inspector further advised judicial officers handling land disputes to conduct **locus visits** where necessary before hearing cases. He explained that visiting disputed property allows courts to better understand the facts on the ground, make informed decisions, and help preserve the status quo by discouraging parties from interfering with the property while proceedings are ongoing.
As part of the Judiciary’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development, Justice Musota planted a commemorative tree at the Nakaseke Chief Magistrate’s Court premises. He encouraged judicial officers and court staff to actively participate in tree-planting initiatives as a contribution to a greener and more sustainable environment.
The inspection visits form part of the Chief Inspector of Courts’ ongoing oversight programme aimed at promoting efficiency, ensuring compliance with judicial standards and procedures, identifying operational challenges, and providing guidance to enhance service delivery across courts.
Also accompanying Justice Musota during the inspections was HW Catherine Nankanja, a Research Magistrate attached to the Chambers of the Chief Inspector of Courts.
