By Our Reporter,
KAMPALA
Legal experts under the Network of Public Interest Lawyers (NETPIL) are advocating for enhanced support and reforms to bolster private prosecution in Uganda, emphasizing its potential to improve justice and accountability, particularly when state agencies may fall short.
At the National Symposium on Private Prosecution organized by NETPIL, Counsel George Musisi highlighted private prosecution as a valuable tool for holding state entities, such as the police and military, accountable. Musisi noted that private prosecutions could fill a critical gap in the justice system when the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) fails to act.
“Private prosecution can serve as a critical instrument for enhancing accountability and promoting justice, especially when the state, through the DPP, fails to act,” Musisi said. He argued that with proper support, private prosecutions could make a meaningful impact on Uganda’s legal landscape but stressed that legal and institutional obstacles must be addressed for it to thrive.
Keynote speaker Advocate Male Mabirizi pointed out the public’s misunderstanding of private prosecution as a major challenge. He explained that this negative perception discourages acceptance and hinders the effectiveness of the practice.
“The negative perception of private prosecution by the public is one of the biggest challenges we face; many people misinterpret these cases, and this needs to be addressed urgently,” Mabirizi stated. He also highlighted the resistance from state institutions, particularly the DPP, which sometimes takes over cases that would otherwise be privately prosecuted.
Mabirizi explained, “The practice remains underutilized and faces challenges, including resistance from the DPP, which often takes over cases that should proceed as private prosecutions.” He called for increased public awareness and legal reforms to address these issues.
The legal experts concluded by calling for a more supportive legal framework and a campaign to educate the public about the potential of private prosecutions. They stressed that with these changes, private prosecution could play a vital role in strengthening Uganda’s justice system and promoting accountability.
