JUDICIARY Latest Features

Justice David Matovu (seated - middle) with the students from IUIU

More than 20 Law students from the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU), Kabojja Campus, yesterday visited the High Court Criminal Division on a study tour aimed at deepening their understanding of criminal justice processes. The students, led by their lecturer Ms. Khadijjah Namusiitwa, were received by the Head of Division, Justice David Matovu.

Justice Matovu briefed the group on the operations of the Criminal Division, explaining that it handles capital offences arising from the Kampala Metropolitan area. He walked the students through the stages of criminal proceedings, from drafting a charge sheet, indictment, plea taking, evidence presentation, and cross-examination to the final decision of court. He emphasized that the criminal justice process begins with the Police, proceeds to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and finally reaches the courts.

HW Shamilah Tindikahwa, Magistrate Grade I (Research) attached to the Head of Division, enlightened the students on Plea Bargaining. She explained that it is a negotiated arrangement in which an accused person pleads guilty in exchange for a lighter sentence or reduced charges. 

Governed by the Judicature (Plea Bargain) Rules, 2016, the innovation is designed to reduce case backlogs, minimize delays, and decongest prisons by expediting case disposal.

HW Tindikahwa also introduced the students to the principles of juvenile justice, noting that juveniles, children below the age of criminal responsibility, are subjected to similar trial processes as adults, but sentencing is capped at three years and confinement is in remand homes rather than prisons.

In an interactive Question and Answer session, Justice Matovu addressed students' concerns on the selection of court assessors, the flow of cases through the judicial hierarchy, and the practical workings of juvenile justice. He explained that court assessors are respected members of society who provide opinions in criminal trials, often chosen for their integrity, moral standing, and ability to communicate in widely understood languages.

Encouraging the students, Justice Matovu urged them to remain curious and proactive in engaging with the justice system. "Acquaint yourselves with the workings of court and never hesitate to seek knowledge from judicial officers, you are the future custodians of justice," he said.