GIDEON TUMWIJUKYE
KIGEZI– Her Lordship Justice Jane Frances Abodo, Director of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), has called for an increase in the number of prosecutors to ensure justice is served. She emphasized that having just one prosecutor serving four judicial offices is unfair to the people of Uganda. Justice Abodo made this appeal during the Kigezi Region Open Baraza, held on Wednesday at Kabale District Headquarters in Makanga Central Division, Kabale Municipality.
The Baraza was organized by the ODPP as part of its mission to manage and prosecute crimes, contributing to a crime-free society. The discussion followed concerns raised by the Kigezi Regional Police Commander, ASP Hajji Ibrahim Saiga, who highlighted key challenges delaying justice for the people of Kigezi. He noted the absence of an ODPP office in the newly created districts of Rubanda and Rukiga, irregular court sittings in Kanungu District, where courts only convene twice a week, and insufficient funding for High Court sessions.
In response, Justice Abodo acknowledged these concerns and committed to discussing them with relevant stakeholders at the management level. She noted that Kanungu District has two Grade II magistrates and mentioned the possibility of establishing a court in Rubanda. Justice Abodo emphasized that the police are only involved in prosecution as a last resort and reiterated her office’s dedication to upholding the rule of law, transparency, and accountability.
Speaking on behalf of the Resident Judge of Kabale High Court, Justice Samuel Emokor, Deputy Registrar Catherine Nagwero echoed concerns about the busy Rubanda Grade I Court, where prosecution is currently handled by a police officer, posing potential conflicts of interest. She pledged continued cooperation between the judiciary’s branches to address the situation.
Godfrey Nyakahuma, the Resident District Commissioner for Kabale, informed the audience that land had already been secured for courts in Ndorwa East and West Counties. He raised concerns about residents from Katuna, near the Rwanda border, having to travel long distances to seek justice at Makanga Hill, stressing the need for better service delivery in Kabale District.
The Baraza, held under the theme “Justice for All,” aimed to bring prosecution services closer to the people.
