October 31, 2023.
Kampala, Uganda | Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera has administered the oath to 88 acting Grade One Magistrates in Uganda while emphasizing the importance of their roles and conduct. Flagging off a two-week induction for the newly deployed magistrates, he underscored the significance of respecting their superiors, time management, court property, staff, and litigants.
Justice Buteera particularly highlighted the need for politeness and respectfulness. He warned against abuses of power, referencing a case in Luwero District where a Grade One Magistrate displayed inappropriate behavior towards the Chief Magistrate and faced disciplinary actions later on. Justice Buteera emphasized the need to maintain courtesy and treat colleagues and the public with respect.
He encouraged the magistrates to have a prior plan of their duties, establish annual work plans, and ensure the proper handling of files. Justice Buteera advised them to maintain good conduct by avoiding indiscipline, such as corruption, absenteeism, and laxity in managing court registry archives. He also stressed the importance of respecting court property and making timely returns to their superiors.
Justice Michael Chibita, the chairperson of the Judicial Training Institute, addressed the need for hard work and high integrity among judicial officers. He emphasized that integrity is the cornerstone of the administration of justice and urged the magistrates to prioritize honesty and trustworthiness in their work.
Justice Chibita referred to a recent scandal involving a magistrate who was arrested for allegedly impersonating someone and sitting an exam for them. The incident highlighted the importance of maintaining integrity in the judiciary. Magistrate Musa Ammaari Ssemogerere, who was among the newly appointed magistrates, was arrested for his alleged involvement in the scandal.
The induction aimed to prepare the acting Grade One Magistrates for their roles and responsibilities while upholding the principles of respect and integrity in their work.
