Principal Judge Abodo Advises Judges on Health During Election Petition Season

Principal Judge Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo has called on judges tasked with hearing election petitions to actively manage their stress and safeguard their well-being. During a visit to the High Court in Mukono District, Justice Abodo assessed the judges’ working conditions and overall health, emphasizing the need to balance demanding workloads with personal care.

“Be alert and listen to your bodies. You have to look after yourselves. Our bodies are fragile and will not be there forever. Work smart, not hard,” Abodo advised the judicial officers. She cautioned that stress and exhaustion can accumulate unnoticed, urging judges to recognize when rest is necessary and to maintain a healthy equilibrium.

Justice Abodo underscored that election petitions are just one aspect of a judicial career and encouraged judges to approach each case with a clear mind, basing decisions on the law and presented evidence. She also stressed efficient case management, including effective hearing planning and timely delivery of decisions without compromising the right to a fair hearing for all parties involved.

The Principal Judge commended the judges for undertaking the significant responsibility of handling election petitions and expressed satisfaction with their progress. She also acknowledged the crucial support provided by court staff, including registry personnel and research magistrates, who facilitate organized work environments and legal research.

Judges at the Mukono High Court reported receiving adequate support and expressed satisfaction with their working environment and security, which has enabled them to perform their duties confidently. They confirmed that rulings and judgments will be uploaded via the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS), aligning with the Judiciary’s digital transformation efforts.

This guidance aims to ensure timely and fair adjudication of election disputes while preserving the health of those presiding over them.

Source: Nile Post