By Obed Kankiriho
The Resident Judge of the Kabale High Court, Justice Karoli Lwanga Ssemogerere, has commenced hearings of cases involving the Attorney General in the Kigezi sub-region, with at least 20 matters cause-listed for determination in a day-long session.
The cases stem from various litigants seeking relief, compensation, and other remedies against government entities operating within the region.
The hearing has attracted a large number of litigants and legal practitioners from across the greater Kabale area. Law firms represented include M/s Muhangi Justus & Partners Advocates, Beitwenda & Co. Advocates, FIDA-Uganda, M/s Elgon & Co. Advocates, and M/s Bikangiso & Co. Advocates, among others.
Justice Ssemogerere is presiding over the matters, with litigants expressing hope for timely resolution and delivery of justice.
The session follows recent efforts by the Chief Justice, Dr. Flavian Zeija, who operationalized chambers for the Attorney General in the region. The move has enhanced access to the Office of the Attorney General, enabling more efficient engagement between litigants, legal practitioners, and government legal services.
Speaking at the launch last week, Justice Zeija described the establishment of the regional office as a major milestone in the decentralization of legal services and a step toward strengthening the rule of law in the Kigezi sub-region.
He noted that previously, the wider western region was served by only a few state attorneys, expressing confidence that the Kabale office will significantly improve service delivery and access to legal advice.
Justice Zeija added that the regional centres will address challenges related to distance and bureaucracy by acting as legal hubs that provide timely guidance to local governments and ensure administrative decisions are legally sound.
He emphasized that timely filing of court proceedings and consistent attendance of state attorneys will help resolve disputes involving government before they escalate into prolonged litigation, thereby safeguarding taxpayers’ interests.
He also called on government attorneys and legal officers to uphold high standards of professionalism, integrity, and diligence to strengthen public trust in the justice system.
Justice Ssemogerere welcomed the development, describing it as a significant step in improving access to justice, bringing services closer to the people, and easing pressure on the courts.
Meanwhile, Deputy Solicitor General Charles Ouma noted that the new office will save residents from traveling long distances to Mbarara to access services from the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
He said the initiative aligns with the Ministry’s broader goal of enhancing access to justice and will serve as a key centre for delivering timely and efficient legal services. He added that the office will contribute to faster dispute resolution, support economic development, and promote harmonious community relations.
The Kabale Regional Office is among five offices planned under the Ministry’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030, alongside Hoima, Masaka, Iganga, and Lira, all scheduled for rollout in the 2025/2026 financial year.
