CJ Owiny-Dollo commissions courts in Patongo, Agago district

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Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo has commissioned a chief magistrates court building and High Court Circuit in Patongo, Agago district. The move marks a major milestone in the Judiciary’s efforts to extend access to justice closer to the people.

The May 12, 2025, ceremony was witnessed by stakeholders from Parliament, local leaders, representatives from the Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service and members of the general public.

Upon arrival at the event, the Chief Justice inspected a Guard of Honour mounted by the Uganda Police Force and then proceeded to unveil the commissioning plaque and formally opened the newly established court facility.

The Chief Justice expressed satisfaction with the milestone but reminded the public that the structure alone does not constitute justice.

“This is not the court — this is the court building. The Judicial Officers serving you here are the ones who will make this court meaningful. I have faith and confidence in them that they will bring value to the infrastructure that has been set up,” he said.

A tree planting ceremony followed the commissioning, symbolising the growth and longevity of justice in the region. Three Justice Trees were planted by the Chief Justice, the Acting Principal Judge Jane Okuo Kajuga, and Ambassador Olara Otunnu, who represented the local leadership.

The Chief Justice was then taken on a guided tour of the court premises by the Acting Chief Registrar, Pamella Lamunu Ocaya, who highlighted the functionality and readiness of the facility to begin operations.

The event held under the theme: Enhancing Judicial Accountability and Access to Justice, was witnessed by Court of Appeal Justice Florence Nakachwa Dollo, Judges George Okello (resident judge of Patongo), Olive Kazaarwe (President Uganda Judicial Officers Association), Philip Odoki (Head Gulu High Court Circuit), Philip Mwaka Willebrord (Resident Judge Kitgum), and Sarah Birungi Kalibbala (Resident Judge of Lira High Court).

Registrars, Chief Magistrates, Magistrates, Grade other Judicial Officers, and court staff, among other stakeholders, were in attendance.