Speaker Oboth Pledges Strong Support for Judicial Welfare and Working Conditions

Speaker of Parliament Jacob Marksons Oboth has committed to supporting the welfare of judicial officers following a high-level meeting at Parliament. The Speaker met with members of the Uganda Judicial Officers’ Association (UJOA), who paid a courtesy call on him, led by Principal Judge Justice Jane Frances Abodo.

During the discussions, Speaker Oboth assured the judicial delegation that Parliament remains dedicated to addressing welfare challenges. He emphasized that proper facilitation and conducive working conditions are vital for optimal institutional performance and urged the association to formally present their proposals.

“Bring your proposals to Parliament, properly packaged and I assure you they will receive the attention they deserve,” Oboth stated. He acknowledged that working conditions across the Judiciary still require significant improvement, particularly in harmonizing terms with the broader public service.

Principal Judge Abodo highlighted the pressing need to uplift lower-bench officers, especially magistrates who form the backbone of UJOA’s membership. She noted that magistrates serve as the primary point of contact for the public and stressed that poor facilitation directly impacts their ability to dispense justice effectively.

Addressing the ongoing challenge of case backlog, Justice Abodo pointed out that the Judiciary is increasingly relying on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as an essential tool for delivering timely justice. UJOA President Justice Daphne Ayebare also appealed for parliamentary backing regarding better salaries, housing, medical care, and security for members.

Additionally, Ayebare briefed the Speaker on the association’s humanitarian initiatives, including the ‘Porridge Project’ which provides meals to remandees spending long hours in court at locations like Buganda Road. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening Uganda’s justice sector.

For more details, read the original report on the Parliament of Uganda.