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Uganda Law Society (ULS) president Bernard Oundo has urged the public to embrace free legal services.  

Oundo says the public, especially the vulnerable groups, should use the available legal aid services at ULS.

According to Oundo, ULS operates a total of 22 legal offices across the country aimed at providing assistance to vulnerable individuals seeking access to justice. He emphasised that the services are most critical for vulnerable people, who often require them the most.

Oundo has also highlighted challenges regarding the timely delivery of justice, the growing case backlogs and widespread corruption that need urgent attention. He has pointed out that only 10% of the population can easily access justice.

President commends Judiciary

On behalf of the ULC, Oundo commended the Judiciary for organising the National Court Open Day held on April 15, 2024, at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala.

Addressing the gathering at Kololo on April 15, 2024, Oundo also lauded the Judiciary for embracing alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods such as plea bargaining to alleviate the mounting case backlog.

“Critical challenges such as delayed justice, case backlogs, and corruption still need to be addressed,” Oundo said

The Uganda Law Society legal scheme draws its authority from the Law Council, which has the mandate to enforce and regulate the provision of legal services in Uganda. The project is responsible for providing administration and co-ordination of legal aid services between indigent persons in need of legal services.