Corruption has long been a significant issue in Uganda, eroding trust, wasting resources, and undermining justice. However, a subtle shift is occurring within the country’s justice system. The Justice, Law and Order Sub-programme (JLOS), which includes institutions such as the Judiciary, Police, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and Prisons Service, is gradually fostering a new culture of accountability and transparency. This is achieved through innovative anti-corruption strategies and greater citizen engagement.
đź“Š Key Anti-Corruption Achievements
- Dedicated Anti-Corruption Court sessions are now fast-tracking corruption cases.
- Electronic Court Case Management System (ECCMIS) reduces human discretion and manipulation.
- Public complaint hotlines are operational across JLOS institutions.
- Over 200 judicial and law enforcement officers trained in ethics and integrity.
- Citizen trust in justice institutions up by 40% (JLOS Survey 2024).
From Courtrooms to Communities: Taking the Fight to Every Level
Across the country, JLOS institutions are leading by example. The Judiciary has established dedicated Anti-Corruption Sessions in High Courts and Chief Magistrates’ Courts to expedite the processing of corruption-related cases. The ODPP has strengthened its Anti-Corruption Department, while the Uganda Police Force has established Integrity Committees to promote accountability within its ranks. A senior judicial officer comments:
“Previously, corruption cases would drag on for years. Now, special sessions ensure justice is not delayed or denied.”
Technology and Transparency: Modern Tools for an Old Problem
One of JLOS’s major innovations has been the deployment of digital systems to eliminate loopholes. The Judiciary’s Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS) and ODPP’s Prosecution Case Management System (PROCAMIS) have enhanced efficiency and accountability. Every action leaves a digital footprint, making it more difficult for corruption to go unnoticed. “Technology is helping us close the gaps where corruption used to hide,” says a Chief State Attorney at the ODPP.
Building Public Trust Through Openness
Transparency initiatives such as open court days, community dialogues, and regional anti-corruption campaigns are helping demystify the justice process. In Mbale, Mbarara, and Arua, citizens now engage directly with justice officials to discuss their experiences. One participant shared, “For the first time, we could ask hard questions about justice and get honest answers.” This openness is strengthening trust between communities and justice institutions.
Partnerships That Deliver
The success in combating corruption within JLOS relies on collaboration. The Judiciary, ODPP, Police, and IGG work together to coordinate investigations and prosecutions. Development partners such as the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC), the European Union (EU), and the UNODC have funded automation, training, and public education campaigns. Musa Modoi, the Advisor on Human Rights and Accountability at the JLOS Secretariat, summed it up best:
“No single institution can defeat corruption alone, but together, we are building systems that make integrity the new normal.”
A Justice System Leading by Example
Transparency has become routine in daily operations. The Prisons Service employs open procurement systems, while the Police Professional Standards Unit enforces discipline among officers. The Judiciary’s Annual Performance Reports are now published online, giving citizens access to data on case backlog, performance, and resource use. These measures have begun to shift public perception from cynicism to confidence.
Building a Culture of Integrity
The Judicial Training Institute (JTI), Police Training Academy, and Law Development Centre have incorporated ethics and anti-corruption modules into their training programmes. Young officers now see integrity not as a burden but as a badge of honour. One cadet at Kabalye Training School in Masindi remarked, “We are the face of justice. If we are not honest, justice loses its meaning.”
Sustaining the Momentum
Although challenges persist, JLOS continues to expand anti-corruption courts, enhance automation, and increase civic awareness. Plans are underway to strengthen collaboration with local governments to prevent misuse of funds at the grassroots level. JLOS remains united in its message: corruption can be defeated when accountability becomes everyone’s responsibility.
🤝 Partner Contributions
- Austria Development Cooperation (ADC): Supported ethics training and automation.
- European Union (EU): Funded justice reform and digital case tracking.
- UNODC: Provided policy support and integrity systems development.
JLOS Secretariat: Coordinated implementation and inter-agency cooperation.
This article was researched, developed and published with support from the Austria Development Cooperation (ADC) and Embassy in Uganda in partnership with the Justice, Law and Order Sub-programme (JLOS), Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
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