Deputy Chief Justice Buteera Stresses Digital Reforms and Capacity Building at High Court Quarterly Performance Review Retreat
Deputy Chief Justice Buteera emphasized the importance of digital transformation, capacity building, and procedural reforms in enhancing judicial efficiency. He also highlighted the significant role of Alternative Dispute Resolution in case resolution, praising the Judiciary’s efforts to improve resource allocation and promote a people-centered approach to justice.
Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera underscored the importance of digital transformation, capacity building, and procedural reforms, emphasizing that these initiatives significantly enhance operational efficiency within the judicial system.
“These efforts also foster trust and ensure the effective and transparent delivery of justice,” he remarked.
The Deputy Chief Justice made these statements during the opening of the High Court Quarterly Performance Review Retreat for Heads and Deputy Heads of Circuits and Divisions, along with the Case Management Committee, which took place at Admans Grand Hotel in Entebbe.
Buteera further emphasized the critical role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in case resolution, highlighting that in countries such as the United States, 80 percent of court cases are resolved through ADR.
He also outlined the Judiciary’s initiatives to enhance resource allocation, including session funds, locus visits, and innovations in ADR and Alternative Justice Systems (AJS), all of which promote a people-centred approach to justice.
The Deputy Chief Justice commended Principal Judge Dr. Flavian Zeija for ensuring the consistency of these quarterly meetings.
Buteera expressed gratitude to the International Development Law Organisation (IDLO) for its ongoing support, particularly in the areas of capacity building, case management, and improving access to justice.
Additionally, he recognized the efforts of participants in managing and supervising courts within their respective jurisdictions.
He emphasized the value of these meetings as a platform to improve data management, enhance court performance, and share best practices. He noted that the implementation of these practices would significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of court case data management.
Buteera urged all participants to implement the lessons and resolutions from the Retreat, emphasizing that such efforts would help the people of Uganda appreciate the judicial services being delivered.
He encouraged participants to continually strive for improvement and wished them fruitful deliberations.
Principal Judge Dr. Flavian Zeija also addressed the participants, urging them to manage resources effectively and ensure value-for-money adjudication. He called for improved preparation and collaboration with stakeholders in managing criminal sessions.
Justice Zeija extended his gratitude to IDLO for its partnership and continued support, which has made a significant impact on the Judiciary’s activities.
Chief Registrar Sarah Langa Siu expressed appreciation for the participants’ efforts in spearheading the data cleanup initiatives and thanked the Deputy Chief Justice and Principal Judge for their active involvement in these exercises.
The meeting was attended by a team from IDLO, led by Country Manager Barbara Kilei, alongside Professor Andrew Khaukha, Judiciary Technical Advisor and a member of the Case Management Committee.
Registrar of the High Court, Rosemary Bareebe, moderated the retreat.