Reducing case backlog: JSC urges public to seek alternative dispute resolution

MBARARA CITY, July 11, 2025 –– The Deputy Registrar for Education and Public Affairs at the Judicial Service Commission [ JSC ], Samuel Mugisa, has appealed to Ugandans to consider resolving disputes outside the traditional court system in order to help reduce the country’s growing case backlog.

Speaking during a media engagement in Mbarara City  recently, Mugisa acknowledged concerns raised by journalists over the increasing number of pending cases, some of which have left inmates languishing in prison for years without trial.

Mugisa admitted that despite government efforts to increase resources and appoint more judges, case backlog remains a persistent challenge within Uganda’s judicial system.

“Although we now have significantly more judicial officers than before, and despite increased funding to the judiciary, there is still a public outcry over the large number of cases that have gone unheard for years,” he said.

He urged the public to utilise alternative dispute resolution mechanisms such as arbitration, reconciliation, mediation, and negotiation rather than defaulting to litigation.

“Let us encourage people to settle disputes outside court wherever possible. These mechanisms are often quicker, less expensive, and can lead to more amicable outcomes,” Mugisa noted.

Media’s role in public education

Mugisa also called on journalists to raise public awareness about the role and functions of the Judicial Service Commission.

“We’ve invited you here because the public trusts your voices through your various media platforms. We expect you to help disseminate information about what the Judicial Service Commission does,” he said. “Our role goes beyond appointments, we hold judicial officers accountable and, where necessary, have the mandate to remove those who fail to meet standards after following due process.”

Training and recruitment efforts

Maria Theresa Nabulya, Communications Officer for the JSC, welcomed ongoing initiatives aimed at educating the public on how the judicial system works, especially before court sessions begin.

She also revealed that recruitment is underway to address gaps left by undisciplined or underperforming judicial officers.

“As a Commission, we are responsible for recruitment, discipline, and civic education. We are currently in the middle of a major recruitment drive for registrars, deputy registrars, assistant registrars, and Grade I magistrates. So far, we’ve received over 1,500 applications for just 71 magistrate positions,” Nabulya said.

Call for responsible reporting

Nabulya urged journalists to conduct themselves professionally when covering court proceedings and to respect the court environment.

“Some media personnel come into court and try to capture everything on camera without considering the discomfort it may cause to judicial officers, often for security reasons. Be organised, act professionally, and do not disrupt court sessions,” she advised.

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