KAMPALA – The Chief Justice, Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny – Dollo has said the new Administration of the Judiciary Act (AJA) shouldn’t be perceived as a money-making venture, but rather an opportunity for judicial officers to serve the people and quicken access to justice.
While receiving the proposals on the implementation of AJA from the Terms and Conditions of Service on the Implementation of AJA Committee on Monday, Justice Dollo said he was optimistic that the new law would strengthen the Judiciary and improve the performance of the institution.
Court of Appeal’s Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, who chairs the Committee, delivered the Report of the 11-member Committee, informed the CJ that there is general excitement from the staff over the Act.
“Some staff are very excited that the Administration of the Judiciary Act has been implemented. Legal researchers are excited that they can have a career path, they can become Magistrates/Justices that is what the Act has done for them,” he said.
The Chief Justice applauded the Committee for the job well done and for capturing the purpose of the AJA.
He said with the Act, the Judiciary would prepare and deliver its budget to the President.
The Chief Registrar, Sarah Langa Siu, emphasised that the Judiciary should work hand in hand with the Judicial Service Commission to ensure that there is no clash.
The Principal Human Resource Officer, Apophia N Tumwine, emphasised the Act should cater for non-judicial officers retirement benefits as well.
Justice John Eudes Keitirima (head of the High Court Land Division) said it would be a good thing if the Judiciary is allowed to tap into the money that is tied up in some of the court proceedings.
The meeting was, among others, attended by Court of Appeal Justice, Remmy Kasule; the Under Secretary, Ms Maureen Kasande; Registrar Planning and Development, Amos Kwizera; and Deputy Registrars: Waninda Fred (Jinja), and Kawesa Godfrey (JTI, Research).
