MUGABE R
The Deputy Chief Justice of Uganda, Hon. Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, has called upon court officers to serve with integrity, passion, and humility, warning them against actions that provoke dissatisfaction among court users. Justice Zeija emphasized that poor service delivery often results in public resentment and could lead to curses from aggrieved citizens.
He made the remarks on Friday, 30th May 2025, while presiding over the official commissioning of the Rukungiri High Court located in the Eastern Division of Rukungiri Municipality. The new court facility is expected to serve both Rukungiri and Kanungu districts, easing access to judicial services for residents in the region.
Justice Zeija revealed ongoing government efforts to strengthen the judiciary, including plans to establish a Regional Court of Appeal in Mbarara City, a Chief Magistrate’s Court in every district, and a legal training institute in Nakaseke District to enhance the competence of judicial leaders. He cautioned court staff against behavior that frustrates court users and taints the image of the justice system.
Rukungiri Resident Judge, Her Worship Susan Kanyangye, expressed appreciation to the government for bringing judicial services closer to the people. She noted that the new court would aid in the swift resolution of backlogged cases and foster timely and accurate judgments.
Rukungiri Municipality Member of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Elisa Rutahigwa, hailed the establishment of the High Court as part of President Yoweri Museveni’s vision to extend services to all Ugandans. He urged the judiciary to undertake community sensitization programs to address the widespread lack of knowledge among locals regarding court procedures.
Wilberforce Ahimbisibwe Ongom, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Rukungiri, warned court officers against engaging in bribery or colluding with lawyers to deny justice to the poor. He pledged to take stern action against anyone found undermining justice, including launching investigations and enforcing arrests.
Meanwhile, his counterpart from Kanungu, Deputy RDC Gad Ahimbisibwe Rugaju, encouraged judicial officers to work with local and religious leaders to resolve cases amicably. He also urged residents to follow security guidelines strictly, warning that lawbreakers would face serious consequences.
Rukungiri District LC5 Chairman Geoffrey Kyomukama welcomed the opening of the High Court, noting that it would relieve residents from traveling long distances to Kabale for legal services. He called on court officers to be transparent and demonstrate the significance of having a High Court within the district.
