Appellate court to hear 27 cases at Masindi

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The appellate court has started hearing criminal appeals at the Masindi High Court.

The three-day session, which started on May 12, 2025, was officially opened by Deputy Chief Justice Dr Flavian Zeija.

The court is being presided over by Zeija and justices Christopher Gashirabake and Ketrah Kitariisibwa Katunguka.

According to the cause list signed by court registrar Allen Rukundo Owembabazi, murder tops the list with 14 appeals. Aggravated defilement follows with nine cases, and aggravated robbery with four.

Notably, three appellants are challenging life sentences for murder convictions.

Speaking during the stakeholders’ meeting, Zeija reflected on the Judiciary’s ongoing efforts to enhance equitable access to judicial services for all and highlighted the strategic importance of the session within the Judiciary’s broader goals under Strategic Plan V (2020/2021–2024/2025).

He noted that it was the second Court of Appeal criminal session to be held at the Masindi High Court Circuit, the first having taken place in March 2024.

He also noted that the earlier session concluded successfully, with all 25 judgments delivered on time, fulfilling the Judiciary's commitment to timely justice.

Zeija underscored the rationale behind holding regional Court of Appeal sessions, saying it reduces transportation and litigation costs spent by litigants trekking to Kampala to access the services and bringing justice closer to the people.

He reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to reducing case backlogs, providing timely justice, and ensuring equitable access to justice regardless of citizens’ social or economic status.

The Deputy Chief Justice encouraged judicial officers and justice actors to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), including plea bargaining, reconciliation, juvenile diversions, mediation, negotiation, arbitration and conciliation.

“Tap from the experiences of retired judicial officers, senior advocates, and religious leaders in your area to help you carry out mediation, and this will help you reduce the caseloads before your courts,” he urged, emphasising the value of involving experienced individuals in ADR.

Zeija also expressed appreciation to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), advocates, and all other actors who ensured the smooth commencement of the session.

He reassured participants that judgments from the session would be delivered on time and encouraged all stakeholders to maintain the coordination and cooperation already demonstrated.

Responding to concerns raised during the meeting, he acknowledged the need for additional judicial officers and also addressed issues regarding the need to handle land matters swiftly, delays in chamber inspections, and remand home conditions in Masindi.

He committed to engaging the relevant authorities for feedback and resolution.

Furthermore, he noted that digital transformation is underway, with the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS) soon to be rolled out in the circuit and other circuits in the country, allowing for remote filing and improved efficiency.

Masindi High Court Resident Judge Mary Babirye reported that since her deployment, she has met key stakeholders, including the Resident District Commissioner, Prisons Service, legal aid offices, the DPP, and the police, all contributing to strengthened collaboration and improved justice delivery.