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Justice Zeija denounces corruption at Mbarara high court open day

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Justice Zeija denounces corruption at Mbarara high court open day
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The Principal Judge, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, strongly criticised bribery and corruption within the legal profession, urging lawyers and judicial officers to uphold integrity and fairness.

Speaking during the Mbarara High Court Open Day, held under the theme “A People-Centered Approach to Justice,” Justice Zeija condemned unethical practices that exploit those seeking justice.

“When you take money from someone, misuse it, and deliver unfair judgments, do you still go home and rest? Bribery and corruption are terrible, and to all those who take bribes, you should stop,” he stated.

The event brought together lawyers, judicial officers, and members of the public from across Western Uganda. It became a platform for citizens to voice concerns about corruption in the judiciary, law enforcement, and delayed judgments.

“A lawyer asked me for Shs 2 million to handle my case, but I gave her Shs 700,000, and she disappeared with my documents,” lamented Richard Kwatampola, a resident of Ntungamo, pointing at one of the lawyers.

“Corruption at the police station in Ruti is extreme, and this must stop,” added Boniface, another citizen.

Kabega Claudine shared her frustration, saying, “As clients of lawyers, we face a problem: we give them our money, they accept it, but they act contrary to our needs.”

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) also raised concerns about delayed judgments, the backlog of cases, and the large number of detainees on remand. Samuel Muhumuza, the Uganda Law Society Council Western Representative, revealed that 55% of prisoners in Uganda are awaiting trial, a situation contributing to overcrowded prisons and delayed justice.

“The number of detainees that we have in prison is 55%, and these are waiting for the resolution of their cases. This is a very high number to have on remand, and their cases can be expedited so that there is a reduction of the backlog,” he explained.

Justice Zeija acknowledged the issue of delayed judgments and pledged to ensure that verdicts are delivered on time. “Judgments should not exceed 60 days,” he emphasised.

To improve access to justice, Justice Zeija announced plans to establish courts in every district across Uganda. “We are establishing courts across the country to bring judicial services closer to the people,” he said. He also encouraged the use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to ease the burden on courts and resolve cases faster.

The Principal Judge also called for Alternative Dispute Resolution to reduce the Judiciary Case Backlog.

As a symbolic gesture of justice and progress, Justice Zeija planted a tree at the Mbarara High Court, reaffirming the judiciary’s commitment to serving the public. “I plant this tree to bear fruits of justice in Mbarara,” he stated.

The Mbarara High Court Open Day provided a rare opportunity for dialogue between the judiciary and the public, with Justice Zeija’s call for accountability resonating strongly among attendees.

His remarks emphasised the need to rebuild trust in Uganda’s legal system through integrity, transparency, and timely justice.

“Courts play a critical role in the socioeconomic circumstances of our people. Therefore, courts and judicial officers should be accessible to all,” he noted.

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