By KT Reporter
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is set to establish a regional office in Hoima to address complaints of judicial misconduct and improve timely access to justice for residents in the Bunyoro sub-region.
The commission says it is in the final stages of setting up the office in Hoima City and is engaging with regional leaders to secure suitable office space.
Jane Margaret Akurut, the JSC Undersecretary, explained that the regional office will ensure residents have access to timely services related to the commission’s operations.
She added that bringing services closer to the public will particularly benefit residents who have faced challenges accessing distant offices in Masaka and Mbarara, where JSC already has regional offices.
The office will handle issues of injustice involving judicial officers, including corruption and bias. Akurut noted that the establishment of the Hoima office responds to long-standing demands from residents and local leaders to address difficulties in accessing justice in the Bunyoro region.
Akurut stressed that the regional office will strengthen accountability within the judicial system in Bunyoro, while urging stakeholders to help sensitize communities to reduce crime and, consequently, the growing backlog of court cases.
Julian Kimono, Hoima Grade One Magistrate, highlighted challenges faced by judicial officers, including heavy case backlogs due to understaffing.
She handles 60 to 70 criminal cases weekly across a single district, making it difficult to conclude cases efficiently.
Kimono called for the recruitment of more judicial officers and court interpreters to ease operational pressures. Residents also welcomed the move.
Edward Okello of Kasenyi-Lyato in Buseruka sub-county urged the commission to conduct civic education initiatives to equip communities with knowledge about law and justice administration.
Patrick Musinguzi of Kigorobya Town Council described the establishment of the office as long overdue, emphasizing that it will raise awareness of people’s rights and guide them on accessing justice.
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