The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mr. Lino Anguzu, has paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner General of Uganda Prisons Service (UPS), Can. Dr. Johnson Omuhunde Rwashote Byabashaija, at Prisons Headquarters in Kampala.
Mr. Anguzu was accompanied by members of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) management team.
The discussions centered on strengthening cooperation between UPS and ODPP in improving justice delivery and ensuring a more effective criminal justice process.
Key areas discussed included reducing prison congestion, enhancing the implementation of the Case Management System, widening access to Plea Bargaining programs across prison facilities, and improving coordination among justice sector stakeholders.
The meeting also addressed challenges related to prolonged remand periods, with both institutions exploring ways of ensuring cases are handled within reasonable time. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) was highlighted as one of the approaches that can support faster resolution of disputes and reduce pressure on the justice system.
Welcoming the DPP and his delegation, Can. Dr. Byabashaija reaffirmed UPS’ commitment to working with ODPP and other justice sector agencies to improve the administration of justice.
He noted that close cooperation among justice institutions is vital in speeding up case disposal, reducing the number of inmates on remand, protecting the rights of individuals and improving service delivery.
Mr. Anguzu appreciated the role played by Uganda Prisons Service in the administration of justice, rehabilitation of offenders and preparing inmates for reintegration into society. He stressed the need for continued collaboration among justice institutions to strengthen prosecution services and ensure timely access to justice.
The partnership between UPS and ODPP remains important in areas such as case management, plea bargaining, court production of inmates, management of remand populations and implementation of reforms aimed at improving efficiency within the justice system.
