Acting Chief Registrar Convenes Meeting of Magistrates Grade One to Review Court Performance
Ag. Chief Registrar , HW Lamunu (2nd from Left) with some of the Magistrates at the meeting
The Acting Chief Registrar, HW Pamella Lamunu Ocaya today convened her first meeting with Magistrates Grade One in charge of court stations since assuming office. The meeting, was held at the Supreme Court Conference Hall on Level 7.
The engagement opened with a review of case statistical data from courts which provided a platform for judicial officers to assess performance, highlight emerging trends in case management, share best practices, and interact with peers.
In her opening remarks, HW Lamunu warmly welcomed the magistrates, noting that it was her first official meeting with them. She thanked God for their safety and expressed delight at finally meeting them in person. She also congratulated HW Agnes Alum on her recent appointment and expressed confidence in her ability to excel in her new role.
Commending the magistrates for their commitment, HW observed progress made in reducing case backlog at their rank. "Thank you for holding the fort on behalf of the Chief Justice and for dispensing justice to the people. The reduction in case backlog at your rank is worth celebrating," she said.
The Acting Chief Registrar highlighted milestones registered by the Judiciary, including the operationalization of five additional High Court Circuits; Wakiso, Entebbe, Patongo, Lugazi, and Kumi bringing the total to 29 functional circuits out of38 approved. She also noted the rollout of video conferencing facilities in five courts and 18 prisons with support from UNDP, and expressed optimism that more funding would be secured to expand the programme.
She further emphasized the importance of judicial officers acquainting themselves with the Judiciary Service Regulations, which replaced the Public Service Standing Orders, as well as the recently gazetted Judicature (Electronic Filing, Service & Virtual Proceedings) Rules, 2025. She also drew attention to the draft Judicial Training Institute (JTI) Regulations recently approved by the Judiciary Council.
While acknowledging challenges such as late and reduced operational funding, HW Lamunu encouraged the magistrates not to lose hope, assuring them that steps were being taken to address the situation. She raised concerns over lengthy remand periods and underscored the need for stronger service delivery. Additionally, she cautioned against lapses in dress code and communication, reminding officers that their conduct directly reflects on the Judiciary.
The Registrar, Magistrates Affairs, HW Agnes Alum, presented a management report, outlining the expectations and key responsibilities of judicial officers in the administration of their stations.
She emphasized the importance of diligence, accountability, and adherence to regulations to ensure smooth court operations. Magistrates were advised to submit accurate monthly statistical returns, prepare quarterly performance reports, and ensure timely accountabilities for funds advanced for various activities.
The report also highlighted the need for re-organization of archives and exhibit stores, compliance with set standards, effective management of court stations, and supervision of staff, inspection, and reporting.
HW Alum stressed that consistent compliance with these measures would not only strengthen performance monitoring but also enhance efficiency in service delivery and uphold public confidence in the Judiciary.
The Acting Chief Registrar also reminded magistrates of upcoming Judiciary calendar events, including the 8thBenedicto Kiwanuka Memorial Lecture on 19th September 2025, the launch of the Annual Performance Report 2024/2025 on 23rd September 2025, and the quarterly Prayer Breakfast on 26th September 2025.
She further urged them to prepare for the Registrars and Magistrates Conference scheduled for 18th-19th December2025.
During the plenary, magistrates raised concerns regarding payment of water and electricity bills, transport challenges to island areas, absence of signage at some courts, shortage of secretaries to type proceedings, lack of furniture, staff overstaying at certain stations, removal of staff without replacements, and inadequate transportation.
The concerns on transport and utility expenses were addressed by the Principal Assistant Secretary, Hajji Sulaiman Hirome, while issues related to staffing were responded to by the Commissioner, Human Resource, Ms. Apophia Tuwiine. It was further noted that staffing shortages were being managed through rationalization; vehicles would be allocated once available; funds to settle utilities were already in place; and signage would be addressed when funding allowed. While the Acting CR and HW prossy Katushabe (Registrar High Court) responded to other concerns.
The meeting, moderated by the Judiciary's Public Relations Officer, HW James Ereemye Jumire Mawanda, concluded in the evening with commendations to the magistrates for their continued efforts and a reminder to communicate clearly in their submissions.
Posted 15th, September 2025
