EASTERN REGION — The Judiciary has launched the Small Claims Procedure (SCP)arrangement to three more Magistrates Court including Kaliro, Busembatya and Namutamba.
This means, SCP model, a civil claim whose subject matter value does not exceed UGX 10M has reached 100 Magistrate Courts countrywide.
The SCP launch at Kaliro Court was presided over by the Resident Judge of Jinja, Lady Justice Eva Luswata on Thursday, while Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, chairman of the procedure presided over the launch of Busembatya and Namutumba courts on Friday October 2.
While in Kaliro the Chief Magistrate of Iganga, Chemeri Jessica and the Grade 1, Irene Namae were applauded for their dedication in delivering justice.
“We have good relationship with this court.” Said the DPC Tashobya Robert who was representing the RDC. He also added that as police, they too are beneficiaries of SCP because now they can inform victims of fraud/debtors where to report.
The LC V, Mr. Ibanda Wycliffe too applauded the grade 1 for her good management of the court. “Before, the court was said to be for show, but now days it’s said that it’s for the people. Thanks to the grade 1 magistrate who’s door is always open and the staff always keep time.” He said
Lady Justice Eva Luswata urged the public to embrace the initiative because it’s sufficient and affordable. She also said that SCP came to reduce case backlog. “This initiative was introduced in 2012 and it’s here to assist with case backlog reduction.” She said
Also present at the launch was Nakawa magistrate, Jackline Kagoya who represented the Ag. Registrar of SCP.
Meanwhile, a huge number of people attended the launch at Busembatya and Namutumba to learn about the SCP model.
The launch was presided over by the chairman of the procedure, Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire who during a meeting with the civic and religious leaders of the area informed them that the Judiciary is here to deliver Justice. “Judiciary is here to deliver Justice fast and swiftly. This procedure is cheap, doesn’t need lawyers and is sufficient. You should embrace it.”
The leaders present got privilege of receiving IEC materials personally from the judge who asked them to use the materials for further sensitisation in their offices. “This IEC material shall definitely help those to come to your offices get information about the procedure. Inform them what you have learnt here today.”
