The Judiciary has announced an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Week scheduled from August 5th to 9th. The initiative aims to resolve pending cases through mediation and negotiation, fostering a more efficient and people-centered justice system.
During a media address at the Judiciary Headquarters in Kampala, Court of Appeal Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire, accompanied by Acting Chief Registrar Rosemary Bareebe, underscored the Week’s significance in resolving pending cases swiftly and effectively through mediation and negotiation.
“The ADR Week introduces a new process aimed at enhancing the people-centeredness and efficiency of our justice system. Our goal is to resolve disputes quickly and efficiently, thereby reducing the time and resources spent on litigation,” Kiryabwire stated.
Justice Kiryabwire, a member of the ADR Committee representing Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera, acknowledged the Judiciary’s efforts to address concerns such as low case disposal rates and delays. He emphasized their commitment to delivering justice efficiently and effectively.
The ADR Week will involve the Court of Appeal, Constitutional Court, High Court circuits, and Chief Magistrates Courts. Justice Kiryabwire stressed that participation in the event is voluntary, with interested parties encouraged to express their willingness. Additionally, some cases have been selected for resolution during the ADR Week.
The Judiciary has trained a team of 75 accredited professional mediators to facilitate the settlement process. The ADR Week aims to provide a platform for parties to resolve disputes through mediation and negotiation, aiming to reduce the need for prolonged and costly litigation.
In June 2023, the Judiciary launched the Alternative Justice Strategy, aimed at introducing a new avenue for dispute resolution. Justice Kiryabwire highlighted the cumbersome nature of traditional legal processes involving lawyers and appeals, prompting the Judiciary’s initiative to expand mediation opportunities.
While mediation may not always succeed, Kiryabwire noted provisions for negotiation assistance to address such scenarios. He expressed plans to scale up these efforts nationally following successful localized implementations.
In 2023, thousands of cases were successfully handled through plea bargaining, significantly reducing remand times and prison populations, thereby enhancing the efficiency of criminal justice.
The Judiciary observes higher satisfaction rates with mediation outcomes compared to traditional judgments, highlighting the advantages of Alternative Dispute Resolution in achieving faster case resolutions within the justice system.
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