Anti-Corruption Division Strengthens Stakeholder Collaboration to Accelerate Disposal of Cases
(L-R) Justice Makumbi and Justice Elubu of Anti-Corruption Division
The Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court yesterday held a stakeholder engagement meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration among justice sector actors in promoting access to justice, improving the timely disposal of cases, and ensuring that the perspectives and roles of all partners are effectively integrated into the Division's work.
The meeting was chaired by the Head of the Division, Justice Michael Elubu, who emphasized the importance of continuous engagement with stakeholders as acritical mechanism for improving coordination and addressing emerging challenges affecting case management.
Justice Elubu noted that such platforms enable the Division to align its operations with partner institutions involved in the investigation, prosecution, and adjudication of corruption cases. He also informed participants that the Judiciary is preparing to transition to a paperless system beginning in June, explaining that communication and meeting minutes will increasingly be shared through designated digital platforms, including WhatsApp forums.
During the discussions, Justice Elubu raised concern about cases that have remained pending for extended periods. He revealed that the Division has introduced anew system requiring officers to report on their backlog every fortnight in order to closely track and address delays in case disposal.
The Judge also highlighted challenges related to lengthy investigation timelines, noting that in some instances, suspects are arrested and arraigned in court before investigations are fully concluded, which slows down the progress of cases. Justice Elubu further observed that cases involving multiple accused persons often stall proceedings and lead to prolonged hearings. In addition, he raised concerns about matters being initiated in different courts, which can complicate case management.
He emphasized the need for strict observance of timelines and adherence to rules governing adjournments, while acknowledging the persistent challenge of limited manpower across institutions.
On the issue of plea bargaining, Justice Elubu indicated that the Division will adopt a more structured approach going forward. He explained that plea bargaining is a court-led process that involves an admission of guilt and should be concluded once initiated before moving to the execution stage. He encouraged stakeholders to promptly bring delayed matters to the attention of the Registrar so that appropriate action can be taken.
Justice Elubu also congratulated the Office of the Inspector General of Government on the appointment of the new Inspector General of Government. He further informed the meeting that Justice Jane Kajuga, who has been on extended leave, is expected to resume her duties at the Division next week.
During the engagement, he introduced HW Peter Lochomin as the new Chief Magistrate of the Anti-Corruption Division, noting that he previously served at the Division and brings valuable experience to the role.
Justice David Makumbi suggested that each case handled at the Division should ideally have at least two prosecutors familiar with the file in order to ensure continuity, particularly in situations where officers are transferred. He also encouraged stakeholders to raise concerns whenever the court falls short, emphasizing that the court remains open to constructive engagement.
Stakeholders acknowledged the challenges associated with completing investigations within the required timelines but committed to taking investigation timelines more seriously. They also appealed to the court to be mindful of the limited number of prosecutors available, noting that many courts across the country operate without dedicated prosecutors.
At the same time, participants commended the court for its professionalism, particularly in the scheduling of matters and respect for the time of court users.
Representatives from the Financial Intelligence Authority indicated that they would take back the concern regarding the need for training for judges, judicial officers, and investigation officers, noting that the Authority regularly conducts capacity-building programmes in this area.
The meeting was moderated by the Court's Assistant Registrar, HW Patrick Talisuna, who explained that stakeholder engagements are ordinarily held on a quarterly basis but the previous meeting could not take place due to the heavy workload experienced during the last quarter.
In attendance; HW Paul Mujuni, HW Christopher Opit, HW Esther Asiimwe, and Magistrates Grade One Research attached to the Division.
Representatives from the Financial Intelligence Authority, the Office of the Inspector General of Government, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Uganda Revenue Authority, Uganda Prisons Service, and Transparency International Uganda, among other institutions, also attended the engagement.
Posted 12th, March 2026
