JUDICIARY Latest Features

(Left) Hon. Justice Richard Buteera, the Deputy Chief Justice and Patron of the Uganda Association of Prosecutors (UAP)

Justice Richard Buteera, the Deputy Chief Justice and Patron of the Uganda Association of Prosecutors (UAP) spoke at a special lecture on the topic: "Towards a More Effective Justice System: Nurturing a Culture of Ethical Collaboration Among Key Justice Stakeholders."

Organized by UAP, the lecture which had online participation attracted a cross-section of participants, including Prosecutors, Judicial Officers, and advocates, with both physical and virtual attendance.

In his address, Justice Buteera emphasized the crucial roles of various justice stakeholders such as the Courts, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Attorney General, Police Service, Prisons Service, local governments, and others. He highlighted that these stakeholders derive their authority from the Constitution and other laws.

Justice Buteera referred to Article 126(1) of the 1995 Constitution, which states that "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 inconformity with the law and with the values, norms, and aspirations of the people." This provision underscores the importance of courts exercising authority in line with the law and public values.

He also pointed to Article 120(5) of the Constitution, which guides the Director of Public Prosecutions to consider public interest and justice while preventing the abuse of legal processes. Section 22 of the Advocates Act further outlines the responsibilities of advocates as officers of the High Court, ensuring they adhere to professional standards.

Justice Buteera stressed that judicial officers, prosecutors, and advocates all serve as officers of the Court with a duty to protect and promote citizens' rights, as outlined in Article 28(1) of the Constitution. He explained that the effective administration of justice relies on the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, who must adhere to professional and ethical standards.

He noted that criminal cases impact entire communities, involving victims, suspects, their families, and local leaders. Successful prosecution depends on thorough investigations and accurate information from witnesses. The rights of the accused are safeguarded through transparent disclosure by the prosecution.

He urged stakeholders to foster professionalism and ethical behaviour by being punctual, respectful, and courteous in their interactions. He emphasized the need for collaboration and interdependence to build a culture of ethics within the justice system.

Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, the Director of Public Prosecutions, who was the facilitator of the Lecture thanked the participants and UAP for their roles in advancing the justice system. She acknowledged the crucial contribution of UAP and emphasized that ethical standards are essential for achieving justice. She noted that stakeholders must be intentional about fostering ethical collaboration and maintaining integrity and impartiality.

Lady Justice Abodo also noted that everyone involved in the justice system shares the goal of delivering fair and effective justice to the people of Uganda. She underscored the importance of teamwork and building a culture of trust through collaboration among justice actors.

Justice Abodo detailed the key roles of prosecutors, noting their responsibility to assist the courts in sentencing while upholding high standards of integrity, diligence, and preparedness. She noted that Prosecutors must seek justice, not just convictions, and must ensure honesty and confidentiality in their work. 

The DPP also urged prosecutors to avoid making biased arguments or assisting witnesses to testify falsely, always acting in the public's best interest and ensuring thorough investigations.

Notably present were HW Dr. Mushabe Alex Karocho(Private Legal Secretary to the DCJ),Mr. Kulu Idambi J.B (Assistant DPP), Mr. Semalemba Simon Peter (Assistant DPP),Mr. Amerit Timothy (Senior State Attorney), Mr. Kyomuhendo Joseph, (Chief StateAttorney), and Ms. Deborah Itwali (Chief State Attorney) among others.

The lecture was moderated by Ms. Immaculate Angutoko, the President of UAP.