Public awareness campaigns organised by the Judiciary's Registry of Communications and Public Relations have today continued with a session today at Rubirizi Magistrate's Court aimed at equipping court users with knowledge of judicial processes and promoting improved service delivery.
The sensitisation session was facilitated by Mr. Deo Akugizibwe, Communications Officer, who engaged participants on the Judiciary's ongoing innovations and reforms designed to enhance access to justice.
To kick off the campaigns, Magistrate Grade I, HW Sarah Nakasiita, encouraged the court users to make use of the innovations and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms that the Judiciary has put in place to ensure timely and effective justice delivery. She further urged participants to freely ask questions and seek clarifications on areas of concern.
Mr. Akugizibwe guided participants through various ADR mechanisms including Plea Bargaining, Mediation, and Small Claims Procedure, urging them to utilise these user-friendly and cost-effective options. He emphasised that the Small Claims Procedure enables individuals to access justice without enduring long delays or incurring high legal costs, while mediation and plea bargaining foster reconciliation and help reduce case backlog.
He also demonstrated the functionality of the Electronic Court Case Management Information System(ECCMIS), noting that it was introduced to minimise direct contact between court users and staff, enhance transparency, and save time. Mr. Akugizibwe encouraged participants to embrace ECCMIS and to make use of the Judiciary Call Centre's toll-free lines to seek guidance or report grievances.
Additionally, he sensitised participants on bail and its refund, cautioning them against making payments outside official court channels. He advised that all payments be made to the bank or court cashier, with proper documentation and receipts retained for accountability.
As part of the campaign, participants received Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials designed to simplify court processes and raise awareness about citizen rights and responsibilities.
During the interactive question-and-answer session, court users expressed appreciation to the Judiciary for organising the outreach and to the Magistrate and staff for their dedicated service. Concerns were raised regarding the monetary jurisdiction of Small Claims cases, delays in prosecution leading to prolonged remand periods, and challenges with mediation where parties are uncooperative. These issues were addressed by HW Nakasiita, who reassured participants of the Judiciary's ongoing efforts to resolve such challenges.
Also in attendance was Mr. David Katungye, Resident Senior State Attorney, Rubirizi.
In closing, HW Nakasiita urged court users to embrace the knowledge gained and utilize the Judiciary's innovations for their benefit. She thanked the Judiciary's Communications team for the sensitisation to Rubirizi and reaffirmed the court's commitment to serving the public diligently.
Posted 12th, November 2025
