By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
National
On January 24, 2024, the Chief Justice of Uganda, Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, announced the creation of new High Court Circuits and the re-organization of existing ones. This move aims to bring judicial services closer to the people, ensuring easy and quick access to justice. The creation of new circuits is part of the Judiciary’s transformation agenda, which focuses on enhancing access to justice services across the country.
Since August 2022, 10 new High Court Circuits have been operationalized, bringing the total number of operational circuits to 24. With the new Statutory Instrument No. 94 of 2023, a total of 38 High Court Circuits will be established, replacing the previous 20 circuits designated in 2016.
The Chief Registrar, Sarah Langa Siu, provided details on the 18 newly created High Court Circuits. These include Apac, Bugiri, Bushenyi, Dokolo, Entebbe, Ibanda, Kasese, Kiboga, Kitgum, Kumi, Lugazi, Moyo, Nebbi, Ntungamo, Pallisa, Patongo, Rakai, and Wakiso. Some of these circuits, such as Bushenyi, Kasese, Kiboga, and Kitgum, have already been operating under their mother circuits but will be formally launched during this quarter.
The new arrangement aims to make justice more accessible by bringing courts closer to the people. The new High Court Circuits will serve specific districts and cities, ensuring that legal services are readily available to individuals in these areas. For example, the Arua circuit will include Terego, Maracha, Madi-Okollo, Koboko, Arua, and Arua City, while the Fort Portal circuit will serve Bundibugyo, Kyenjojo, Bunyangabu, Kabarole, Ntoroko, and Fort Portal City.
The Chief Justice emphasized that the creation and re-organization of these circuits align with the Judiciary’s transformation agenda. The establishment of more courts will enable the population to access justice more meaningfully, ultimately improving the overall efficiency of the legal system.
This development signifies a significant step towards enhancing access to justice services in Uganda. By bringing judicial services closer to the people and expanding the number of circuits, individuals and communities will have improved access to legal processes and protection under the law. This move demonstrates the Judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that justice is accessible to all Ugandans throughout the country.
