Court Of Appeal to Hear 25 Criminal Appeals in Jinja
10th, November 2025
TheCourt of Appeal will next week conduct a three-day Criminal Appeals Session inJinja, during which 25 criminal appeals are scheduled to be heard. The sessionis slated to run from 15th to 17th December 2025, marking another significanteffort by the Court to reduce criminal case backlog and extend appellateservices closer to the regions.
Apanel of three Justices, Justice Cheborion Barishaki, Lady Justice MargaretTibulya, and Justice Musa Ssekaana, will preside over the hearings. Inpreparation for the session, Lady Justice Tibulya yesterday convened apre-hearing meeting to assess readiness and identify any gaps that could hinderthe smooth running of proceedings.
Presentat the meeting; HW Nakkazi Juliet Ruth, HW Nabyangwe Annah, and HW NamawejjeHildah, Magistrates Grade I Research attached to the presiding Justices. Alsoin attendance were Mr. Dennis Rwatooro, Senior Systems Administrator, and Ms.Charity Atwine, a Clerk.
TheOffice of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) was represented byAssistant DPP Mr. Semalemba Simon Peter, while all appellants, currently heldat Jinja Main Prison, attended virtually, together with their legalrepresentatives. The hybrid engagement ensured full participation whileminimising logistical constraints.
Accordingto the causelist issued by the Registrar of the Court of Appeal, HW RukundoAllen Owembabazi, Murder constitutes the majority of Appeals to be heard, with14 appeals falling under this category. This is followed by eight appeals forAggravated Defilement. The Court will also handle two Aggravated Robberyappeals and one Rape appeal.
Thesession also includes two appellants challenging life sentences imposed onmurder convictions, underscoring the significance of the upcoming sittings forboth the appellants and the justice system.
TheCriminal Appeals Session in Jinja forms part of the Judiciary's ongoing effortsto enhance access to justice, expedite hearings, and bring appellate courtservices closer to the people in line with the institution’s broader reforms.
