Ugandan MPs Push for Shs8 Billion to Build Justice Ministry Regional Offices Amid Case Backlogs

Ugandan parliamentarians are prioritizing solutions to the ongoing crisis of case backlogs in the justice sector. During a plenary session on April 16, 2026, Deputy Chairperson of the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. John Teira, presented a report urging the government to allocate Shs8 billion for building permanent regional offices for the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

The report highlights that only seven regional offices currently serve an average of 25 districts each, leading to heavy workloads and long travel distances of up to 400 km, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like orphans and widows. Although five new offices were opened in Iganga, Masaka, Hoima, Kabale, and Lira last year, they operate from rented premises, necessitating permanent structures.

Further recommendations include Shs20 billion to recruit more State Attorneys for the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), which is understaffed at 759 against a need for 1,734. An additional Shs8 billion was proposed to operationalize ODPP offices in 32 districts and over 100 outer courts lacking presence.

To speed up case handling and curb corruption, the committee seeks Shs13.7 billion for the Electronic Court Case Management System.

MPs voiced strong support: Hon. Isaac Otimigiw (NRM, Padyere County) emphasized reduced delays, while Hon. Ibanda Rwemulikya (Ntoroko County) noted travel barriers for the poor and elderly. Hon. Joseph Ssewungu (NUP, Kalungu West) linked staffing to lower prison costs. However, Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju (FDC, Kira Municipality) urged scrutiny of judicial independence and judgment quality beyond just clearing backlogs.

Source: Parliament of Uganda