About the Judiciary
The Judiciary's mandate is found in Article 126 (1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda: "Judicial Power is derived from the people and shall be exercised by the Courts established under this Constitution in the name of the people and in conformity with the law and with the values, norms and aspirations of the people." Article 126 (2) outlines the following principles that should be applied when adjudicating cases:-
Justice shall be done to all irrespective of their social or economic status;
Justice shall not be delayed;
Adequate compensation shall be awarded to victims of wrongs;
Reconciliation between parties shall be promoted; and
Substantive justice shall be administered without undue regard to technicalities.
The courts shall furthermore be independent and shall not be subject to the control or direction of any person or authority.
The core functions of the Judiciary are:
Administer justice through resolving disputes between individuals, and between the State and individuals.
Interpret the Constitution and the laws of Uganda.
Promote the rule of law and contribute to the maintenance of order in society.
Safeguard the Constitution and uphold democratic principles.
Protect human rights of individuals.
The Judiciary's Core Values, Mission and Vision:
Independence: The Judiciary will ensure that it operates freely in its own best judgement, without taking directives from, or being controlled by, any person or authority. We will uphold and exemplify the independence of the Judiciary in its individual and institutional aspects.
Impartiality: We uphold that justice must not merely be done but must also be seen to be done. Judicial Officers shall perform judicial duties without fear, favour, ill-will, bias, or prejudice.
Transparency: The Judiciary will be open a tall times in dealing with all partners in the administration of justice, documenting its operations and freely disseminating information. The Judiciary will endeavor to win the confidence and trust of all Ugandans and the international community through the quality of its services.
Professionalism: The Judiciary will endeavor to have well-trained, professionally competent and self- confident staff that will administer justice to all.
Integrity: The Judiciary will carry out its activities in an honest and truthful manner, and will take all reasonable measures to prevent willful wrongdoing by its officials. Our behavior and conduct will re-affirm the people's faith in the integrity of the Judiciary.
Accountability: The Judiciary will take full responsibility for its actions, and will always be answerable to the people of Uganda and to its partners.
Equality: The Judiciary will uphold the principles of equality, equal opportunities and affirmative action in respect to gender and other disadvantaged groups. We shall accord equal treatment to all persons who appear in court, without distinction on unjust discrimination based on the grounds of sex, colour, race, ethnicity, religion, age, social or economic status, political opinion, or disability.
The Judiciary's Mission is "To Efficiently and Effectively Administer Justice."
In pursuit of its mission the Judiciary will work closely with all stakeholders particularly the people of Uganda; promote an organizational culture of innovation, learning and continuous improvement; and lead the process of transformation among JLOS institutions.
The Judiciary's Vision is "Justice for All."
