RUKUNGIRI.
The Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija, has officially commissioned a permanent building for Rukungiri High Court .
A cross-section of judicial officers from the lower bench, advocates, and court users witnessed the commissioning. Justice Zeija inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Uganda Police before unveiling a commemorative plaque and planting a tree in memory of the day’s milestone.
Guided by the Resident Judge, the Assistant Registrar, and Eng. Priscilla Nakiboneka (Ag. Commissioner for Engineering and Estates), the Deputy Chief Justice toured the new facility, which includes judges’ chambers, court halls, child care centre, registry, exhibit store, archives, and police holding cells.
Justice Zeija said the new facility will transform access to justice in southwestern Uganda. “Bringing justice closer has been a long-standing goal of our transformation agenda. I urge court officials to embrace best practices—clear hearing dates, customer care, proper archiving, and a zero-tolerance stance on corruption,” he said
The function was held under the theme “Enhancing Judicial Accountability and Access to Justice.”
“This building is not just about space—it is about dignity, rule of law, and ensuring justice is no longer a distant dream,” Justice Susan Kanyange, Rukungiri’s Resident Judge,said
“All cases previously delayed due to lack of space will now be heard and resolved in good time.” she added.
Over the years High Court sessions in the district have been taking place in premises of the Chief Magistrate’s Court, causing delays and congestion. With the new facility, constructed by Hebron Investment Co. Ltd at a cost of Shs1.62 billion, hundreds of pending cases will be handled more efficiently.
Local leaders hailed the development as a major breakthrough. “This court will greatly reduce the burden of traveling to Kabale,” Dr. Elisa Rutahigwa, Rukungiri Municipality legislator ,said
Joseph Mugisha a resident of Bwambara Sub-county said: “I failed to pursue my case in Kabale because of lack of transport.
With the court now in Rukungiri, justice is finally within reach,”
The Rukungiri High Court is among six new circuits operationalized in 2022, including Tororo Luweero, Moroto, Hoima and Iganga.