Africa-Press – Uganda. Flavian Zeija has called on legal professionals to expand access to justice beyond formal courtrooms by actively engaging communities through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
Speaking on Tuesday evening to students of the Faculty of Law at Kabale University, Zeija made the remarks during the institution’s second annual law students’ dinner held at White Horse Inn in Kabale Municipality under the theme “The Role of Lawyers Beyond the Courtroom.”
In his address, the Chief Justice warned that restricting legal practice to courtroom litigation excludes a significant portion of the population from accessing justice. He noted that only about 10 percent of Ugandans rely on formal courts, with many turning to religious leaders, clan heads, and traditional systems to resolve disputes.
He urged lawyers to embrace broader roles as mediators and peacemakers, emphasizing the importance of preventing conflicts before they escalate.
“Courts do not necessarily resolve disputes but determine cases,” Zeija said. “A truly successful lawyer is one who prevents legal battles rather than simply winning them.”
Zeija also underscored the need for integrity within the legal profession, cautioning against corruption and encouraging lawyers to dedicate time to pro bono services to support vulnerable communities.
Karoli Lwanga commended the university for maintaining the tradition of hosting student engagements, noting that such platforms inspire academic excellence and mentorship.
Meanwhile, Joy Constance Kwesiga highlighted staffing challenges facing the institution, revealing that some professionals are reluctant to take up positions due to perceptions of the area being remote.
“Many potential employees are reluctant to join the institution because they view its location as remote and rural,” Kwesiga said.
The engagement forms part of broader efforts by the judiciary to promote access to justice and strengthen the role of legal professionals in community-based dispute resolution.
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