LocationsBringing Justice Closer to the People: Highlights from Uganda’s Second National Court Open Day
January 23, 2026
Public engagement on the streets of Kampala as part of preparatory activities for the 2025 National Court Open Day.
On 15th December 2025 - Uganda marked a significant milestone in its justice reform journey with the Second National Court Open Day, held at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds under the theme “Enhancing Judicial Accountability and Access to Justice.” The event brought together judicial officers, court users, development partners, and the public to foster dialogue, transparency, and trust in the justice system.
A platform for accountability and inclusion
On behalf of the Chief Justice of Uganda, Hon. Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, the deputy Chief Justice Hon. Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija emphasized the constitutional foundation of judicial authority and the importance of public engagement;
“Judicial power is derived from the people and shall be exercised by the courts in conformity with law and with the values, norms and aspirations of the people… We have a duty to account to you for what we are doing, and you have a right to question what we are not doing well.”
He highlighted innovations aimed at improving service delivery, including the operationalization of new courts across the country, the rollout of the Electronic Court Case Management System (ECCMIS), and the promotion of Alternative Justice Systems such as mediation and plea bargaining to make justice more timely, affordable, and reconciliatory.
“We have made commendable scores in plea bargaining, small claims courts and mediation as friendly means of dispute resolution… These innovations help reduce case backlog and decongest prisons.”
Hon. Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, Deputy Chief Justice, delivering remarks on behalf of the Chief Justice at the National Court Open Day 2025
UNDP’s commitment to justice and good governance in Uganda
Representing the United Nations Development Programme in Uganda (UNDP), Mr. Ian King, Deputy Resident Representative, reaffirmed the organization’s support for Uganda’s justice sector reforms:
“UNDP is proud to support this initiative, which aligns with our mission to enhance access to justice and accountable governance in Uganda. This effort also supports Uganda’s National Development Plan and the global 2030 Agenda, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 16 on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.” he said
He underscored the importance of inclusivity and transparency:
“Court Open Days are crucial in advancing the 2030 Agenda’s core principle of ‘leaving no one behind.’ By creating opportunities for public interaction with judicial officers, events like this help demystify the judicial process, making it more transparent and understandable.” he said.
UNDP’s partnership with the Judiciary extends beyond this event, supporting innovations such as video conferencing systems, real-time court transcription, extending justice services to inaccessible islands such as Buvuma islands and gender equality interventions.
The UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, Mr. Ian King, delivering remarks on behalf of UNDP during the Second National Court Open Day 2025
Strengthening Public Trust through Inclusive Engagement
Both leaders stressed that justice must not only be served but also seen to be served. The Chief Justice called on citizens to actively engage with the Judiciary:
“Feel free to interact with us and give us the much-desired feedback. Together, we shall attain our agenda for an efficient justice system.” he said.
As Uganda continues to expand court infrastructure and embrace technology, initiatives like the National Court Open Days remain vital in bridging the gap between the Judiciary and the people it serves thus enabling inclusive sustainable development.
A photo showcasing public participation during the Second National Court Open Day 2025