DCJ Zeija Chairs First Weekly Meeting of Court of Appeal Justices, Emphasizes Unity and Court Excellence
Deputy Chief Justice (DCJ), Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija
The Deputy Chief Justice (DCJ), Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, on Monday chaired his first weekly meeting with Justices of the Court of Appeal/Constitutional Court, emphasizing teamwork, transparency, and improved service delivery as cornerstones for the Court's continued success.
Held at the Court of Appeal premises in Kampala, the meeting provided a platform for Justices to discuss operational challenges, pending judgments, and strategic improvements aimed at enhancing court efficiency.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Zeija welcomed the Justices and applauded the recent appointment of eight additional Justices, bringing the total to 20. He described the expansion as a major boost to the Court’s capacity, but one that also comes with heightened public expectations.
"The increase in our numbers must translate into improved performance," said the DCJ. Adding; "We must now justify this expansion through better service delivery and timely adjudication."
Citing the handover report from his predecessor, the DCJ acknowledged steady progress in the Court's performance and encouraged continued adherence to the annual work plan which outlines case distribution, court session schedules, and panel assignments. He stressed the need for collective responsibility and the role of teamwork in upholding the Court's reputation.
Justice Zeija underscored the importance of efficient data management and accurate record-keeping, calling on Registrars to supervise the Registries effectively which is essential for improved court performance.
He highlighted the success of the Appellate Mediation Program, which recorded 100 successful mediations in 2024, and urged the Bench to support this initiative.
Noting that Court Annexed Mediation Rules were considered by both the Law Reform and Rules Committees and that once passed, these will provide a clear legal framework for Mediation.
To enhance accountability, he proposed that a report be compiled after each court session ,listing completed cases, pending judgments, and assigned scribe Justices. He also addressed concerns over conflicting rulings and stressed the urgency of resolving pending decisions.
In line with modernizing judicial processes, the DCJ announced plans to transition to a fully paperless court by September 1, 2025, directing the Court Administrator to phase out hard copy filings in favor of the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS).
The DCJ also emphasized the need for regular Court Users' Committee meetings to incorporate feedback from the public, which he said was vital for improving judicial services.
"We must know whether the public appreciates our services, and if not, understand why so we can improve," he stated.
Other key issues addressed included the revision of the Court of Appeal Rules to align with current legal developments and technology. Dr. Zeija encouraged the Justices to contribute to the process and announced plans for an orientation program for newly appointed Justices.
In his remarks, Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, the Court Administrator, officially welcomed the DCJ and commended his leadership vision. He outlined pressing operational challenges, including the need for a registrar for the Criminal Registry, more transcribers, and a utility vehicle to support upcountry court sessions. He also called for the completion of pending works on the Court building and proposed a retreat for Justices to collectively review the Rules governing the Court.
Justice Kiryabwire further endorsed benchmarking with other appellate courts, notably in the United Kingdom and India, to strengthen institutional knowledge and improve standards.
In attendance were Justice Cheborion Barishaki, Lady Justice Hellen Obura, Lady Justice Irene Mulyagonja, Justice Christopher Gashirabake, Justice Oscar John Kihika, Lady Justice Margaret Tibulya, Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi, Justice Dr. Asa Mugenyi, Lady Justice Ketrah Kitariisibwa Katunguka, Justice John Mike Musisi, Lady Justice Esta Nambayo, Lady Justice Cornelia Kakooza Sabiiti, and Lady Justice Stella Alibateese.
HW Rukundo Allen Owembabazi (Registrar Court of Appeal), HW Dr. Mushabe Alex Karocho (Deputy Registrar, Appellate Mediation), HW Mugala Jane (Deputy Registrar, Apellate Mediation), and HW Mwesigye Julius (Private Legal Secretary to the DCJ) were also present.
Posted 7th, May 2025
