judiciary 1 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Court of Appeal Lands in Soroti for Historic First Session
The Court of Appeal has convened in Soroti for the first time in its history, aiming to hear 35 pending appeals and bring justice closer to the Teso Sub-region's residents. This initiative seeks to reduce case backlogs and alleviate the financial and logistical burdens faced by litigants who previously had to travel to Kampala. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/court-of-appeal-sits-in-soroti-for-first-time-takes-on-35-cases-5578982
In a significant move to decentralize judicial services, the Court of Appeal has commenced its first-ever session in Soroti town. This historic sitting, which will run for three days, is set to hear 35 appeals that originated from High Court decisions within the Teso Sub-region.
A panel of three justices, led by Justice Oscar Kihika and including Justices Florence Nakachwa and Esta Nambayo, is presiding over the cases. This initiative is a direct response to the Judiciary’s commitment to reducing the backlog of appeals and making the justice system more accessible to citizens across the country.
Deputy Chief Justice Moses Kawumi Kazibwe, whose remarks were delivered by Justice Kihika, highlighted the session’s significance, stating it was the first time the appellate court had held proceedings in the Teso region. He emphasized the importance of timely justice for the people of Teso and the Judiciary’s dedication to overcoming existing gaps.
Local leaders and cultural figures have lauded the decision. They pointed out that the substantial costs and lengthy nature of traveling to Kampala for appellate matters had placed an immense strain on litigants from rural areas, sometimes forcing them to sell property to fund their participation in court proceedings.
The Court of Appeal, Uganda’s second-highest judicial body, has historically concentrated its sittings in Kampala. However, the Judiciary is actively expanding its reach, with plans to establish permanent facilities in other regions like Gulu, Mbarara, and Mbale. In the interim, special sessions in various locations are being conducted to address regional case backlogs.
Among the prominent cases slated for hearing is a protracted land dispute involving the Serere District Local Government and human rights defender Moses Omiat, concerning 150 acres of land. The appellate court will also hear cases involving the Inspectorate of Government, a land dispute concerning Soroti Catholic Church, and matters related to Soroti University.