Gov't should establish justice centers - Justice Kasule

Mar 01, 2017

He made the call during the 6th annual Pro Bono Day held at Railway Grounds in Kampala on Friday under theme "Access for Justice for all – the role of the Pro bono lawyer".

Justice Remmy Kasule, the chairman of Uganda Law Council has asked government to establish justice centers across the country to enable the less privileged access justice.

He made the call during the 6th annual Pro bono Day held at Railway Grounds in Kampala on Friday under theme "Access for Justice for all - the role of the Pro bono lawyer."

"Pro bono" means the provision of legal services on a free or significantly reduced fee basis, with no expectation of a commercial return.

Kasule proposed that the number of justice centers should be increased and supported by government.

"Justice Centers have reduced, in some areas they are closed up. This means members of legal profession should double their efforts towards providing legal aid to the less privileged," The Court of Appeal Judge advised.

He appealed to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Gen Kahinda Otafiire and members of the legal profession to task government to establish a nationally legal aid policy.

"The scheme should start with the establishment of Justice Centers," Justice Kasule proposed.

He noted that the legal aid project has provided free services for the vulnerable for the last 25 years, calling upon government to do the same as it champions protection of people's right.

Francis Gimara, the president of Uganda Law Society (ULS) said that lawyers had found solace in helping people in need of their services before they consider monetary benefits.

"The two wealthiest people in the world found more satisfaction in giving than receiving, they give for charity. We as USL have decided to offer services for the vulnerable.

Annet Ruyiga, 43, one of the beneficiaries of the legal Aid clinic explained how she regained her land from Jomayi property consultants. She is a resident of Kavule, a Kampala suburb.

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