President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has asked judges to use the available resources accorded to the judiciary to continue delivering justice for all Ugandans.
The President said this while officiating at the opening of the 24th Annual Judge’s Conference held at the Mestil Hotel, Kampala, on January 30, 2023.
The four-day event is running under the theme “The Judiciary Transformation Agenda: Enhanced Access to Justice.”
He was responding to Chief Justice of Uganda, Alfonse Owiny-Dollo’s remarks regarding challenges affecting the operation of the judiciary mostly inadequate funding by the government.
“You cannot say that without money, there will be no justice in Uganda; with or without money, there should be justice,” President Museveni advised.
Owiny-Dollo introduced before the president the newly appointed Chief Inspector of Courts, Justice Stephen Musota, following the untimely demise of Justice Rubby Opio Aweri.
He revealed the plans by the judiciary to offer robust induction upon appointment of judicial officers at whatever level to know how to apply law and knowledge.
“We intend to have trainings of a minimum of one month,” he revealed.
He also appreciated the president for always honoring and gracing the organ’s events, including the New Law Year and Benedict Kiwanuka Day.
“We appreciate your understanding of the critical role the judiciary plays in the development, sustainability, and aspirations of the people of the Republic of Uganda,” CJ Owiny-Dollo said to the president.
In his message to the justices, judges, and justice actors represented by the Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao committed to working with the judiciary to realign its mission and vision.
Chief Justice of South Africa, Hon. Justice Raymond Zondo, who is also attending the conference noted that an independent judiciary is an enabler and promoter of access to justice as enshrined in the constitution.