law 21 August 2026 Nile Post
Judiciary Infrastructure Crucial for Access to Justice, Says Retired Chief Justice Odoki
Retired Chief Justice Benjamin Odoki emphasized that investing in the physical infrastructure of the Judiciary is paramount for enhancing access to justice, asserting that technology alone is insufficient for an effective legal system. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/365754/retired-chief-justice-odoki-says-judiciary-infrastructure-key-to-access-to-justice
Retired Chief Justice Benjamin Odoki has underscored the vital role of infrastructure in the justice system, stating that technology cannot solely guarantee access to justice. He made these remarks at the launch of two books by retired Judiciary Commissioner for Engineering and Technical Services, Eng. Dr Christopher Ebal.
Odoki, who led the Judiciary from 2001 to 2013, noted that his tenure saw significant expansion in judicial staff and a push to bring justice services closer to citizens. This growth necessitated a parallel development in physical infrastructure.
“The Judiciary was expanding. We appointed quite a number of Judges, and as the population grows, you need to improve access to justice. So he was a handy person in terms of expanding our physical infrastructure,” Odoki stated.
He recalled an initial debate within the Judiciary about prioritizing either technology or physical infrastructure. However, the consensus was that both elements are indispensable for a functioning justice system.
“There was initial debate as to whether we should prioritise software and discard hardware. We took the view that both must go hand in hand,” Odoki explained. He further elaborated that essential tools like computers and telephones cannot replace the fundamental need for proper court facilities where judicial officers can work and the public can access legal services.
“Whether you have computers, you have typewriters, you have paper, you have telephones, you needed physical infrastructure where Judges and Magistrates sit,” he added. This led to a concerted effort to construct and upgrade court facilities nationwide, moving away from less formal settings.
Odoki credited Eng. Dr Ebal with providing crucial technical expertise during this period of infrastructure development, overseeing construction projects and architectural plans. He also commended Ebal for documenting his experiences, highlighting the importance of preserving institutional knowledge.
The books, which document Ebal’s career in public service, were lauded by Odoki as valuable references for students, civil servants, and researchers, offering insights into the evolution of public institutions and the challenges faced in public administration.