The Fort Portal High Court was the venue for a spirited Regional Court Coordination Committee (RCCC) meeting that brought together judicial officers, state attorneys, police, prisons, probation officers, advocates, and other justice sector stakeholders from across the Rwenzori Region.
The meeting was co-chaired by Justice Vincent Emmy Mugabo, Head of Circuit, and Justice Vincent Wagona, Resident Judge. HW Ssebandeke Ronald served as Minute Secretary.
In his opening remarks, Justice Mugabo emphasized the importance of teamwork, communication, and coordination as the foundation of effective justice delivery. He raised concern over persistent challenges such as delayed investigations, prison congestion, missing appeal files, and inadequate court security and staffing.
“We must strengthen our collaboration if we are to resolve these challenges and improve efficiency,”
— Justice Vincent Emmy Mugabo, Head of Circuit
After Justice Mugabo’s departure, Justice Wagona took over chairing duties.
During the meeting, members reviewed progress on previous action plans. Improvements were noted in the typing of court proceedings, although staffing shortages continue to hamper efficiency. Mediation updates are now being shared through Bar–Bench forums and WhatsApp groups, while the archiving process remains constrained by the absence of a records officer and basic equipment such as ladders.
It was also reported that Ntoroko District currently lacks a State Attorney, though recruitment is underway. Kamwenge and Ntoroko courts were tasked to justify their power supply needs for possible inclusion in the Judiciary’s forthcoming budget.
While criminal sessions have helped reduce prison congestion, the establishment of an advocate waiting area remains pending. Members further emphasized the need for accurate coordination of plea bargain data and the timely confirmation of Bar–Bench meeting dates.
Institutional heads presented a wide range of reports highlighting progress and challenges across the region:
The Fort Portal Chief Magistrate reported that 365 cases had been handled, with 40 committal files still pending.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) confirmed that fewer than five files were missing and noted improved witness attendance.
Police announced plans to replace court guards and enhance coordination with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to trace missing files, while the Regional CID pledged to ensure capital offenders are committed within six months.
The Fort Portal Remand Home reported 112 juveniles in custody and cited challenges in documentation, vehicle clearance, and reintegration efforts.
In Kamwenge, the Chief Magistrate reported that boundary opening exercises were nearing completion, with court commissioning scheduled for November 5, 2025.
Probation officers are now training Community Development Officers in social inquiry reporting, while the Uganda Law Society commended improvements in judgment delivery and access to the court library.
The Attorney General’s Office announced plans to establish a new regional office in Hoima and called for enhanced service of court documents and stronger mediation efforts.
In his closing remarks, Justice Wagona commended members for their active participation and reaffirmed that strengthening coordination remains central to improving justice delivery in the Rwenzori Region.
A vote of thanks was moved by Deputy Registrar His Worship Francis Dawa Matenga, who officially adjourned the meeting.
