Summary:
Minister Barugahara acknowledged concerns about inefficiency and lapses in professional standards within the DPP but cautioned that rejecting the budget outright may not be the most effective solution.
KAMPALA: The Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Dr. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has urged Members of Parliament on the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee to reconsider their stance on the budget proposal for the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Dr. Barugahara acknowledged concerns about inefficiency and lapses in professional standards within the DPP but cautioned that rejecting the budget outright may not be the most effective solution.
He emphasized the crucial role of the DPP in ensuring justice and accountability, noting that the office faces significant challenges, including understaffing and resource constraints.
Instead of dismissing the budget proposal, he encouraged MPs to collaborate with DPP Jane Frances Abodo’s office to address these issues.
“This could include providing additional funding to recruit more staff, improve communication, and strengthen operational units,” he suggested.
Dr. Barugahara also stressed the importance of ensuring the DPP’s independence and impartiality.
“This could involve strengthening oversight mechanisms and ensuring that the DPP has the necessary resources and support to effectively carry out its mandate,” he added.
He further urged MPs to focus on solutions that enhance the DPP’s efficiency while preventing undue influence.
“By working together, MPs and the DPP can overcome these challenges and ensure that justice is served. Insufficient funding will only hinder the DPP’s ability to fulfill its mandate,” he warned.
Dr. Barugahara concluded by stating that adequately funding the DPP would help deliver timely justice and combat rising crime rates.
