KAMPALA– The Chief Justice, Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny – Dollo, has urged judicial officers in the Western Region to embed human rights principles in their everyday work, warning that even seemingly minor administrative lapses can undermine access to justice and violate constitutional guarantees.
He made the call while presiding over the launch of a two-day Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA) training organised by the Judicial Training Institute (JTI). The training is for Judges, Registrars, Chief Magistrates and Magistrates Grade One from High Court circuits including Kasese, Fort Portal, Mubende and Hoima, and magisterial areas such as Bundibugyo, Kyenjojo, Kabale, Bwera, Kibiito, Kyegegwa, Karugutu, Ntoroko, Kassanda, Kibaale and Kakumiro.
The Chief Justice reminded participants that human rights protection is not limited to landmark decisions or high-level constitutional interpretation, but is exercised in everyday courtroom conduct and administrative discipline.
“When you come to court late, you disrespect litigants’ rights. When you delay delivering a judgment, you impede access to justice. Some of you remand prisoners beyond the statutory time,” he said, noting that small failures can have long-term consequences on liberty, livelihoods and dignity.
The Chief Justice was particularly emphatic on the need for sensitivity toward vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, persons with disabilities and the elderly, saying judicial officers must combine legal knowledge with empathy and situational awareness. He condemned unlawful evictions carried out without adherence to due process and referenced recently issued eviction guidelines designed to promote fairness, consistency and respect for basic rights.
On criminal matters, especially sexual and gender-based violence, he encouraged judicial officers to exercise a sensitivity-driven approach and to remain conscious of the power dynamics that affect victims.
“Let this be a moment of recommitment, so that every decision we make strengthens the rule of law and reinforces the dignity of all,” he said.
Justice Mike Chibita, Chairperson of the JTI Governing Council, and Justice Prof. Andrew Khaukha, Executive Director of JTI, both commended the Chief Justice for prioritising human rights-centred judicial practice. They urged participants to translate the Chief Justice’s message into courtroom action through judgment crafting, case management and procedural fairness.
Training sessions included thematic discussions, expectation-setting, group simulations and presentations on HRBA in cases involving children,persons with disabilities, pregnant women and the elderly.
