By Sylvia
Residents of Fort Portal City have expressed mixed reactions to the Judiciary’s mobile public courts initiative, following the high-profile conviction of Okello Onyumu for the murder of four toddlers in Ggaba last month.
The case, which was heard through a mobile court session in Ggaba, drew significant public attention as proceedings were conducted openly, allowing members of the community to witness the justice process firsthand. Onyumu was subsequently found guilty of aggravated murder and sentenced.
Some residents have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a positive step toward transparency and crime deterrence. Kyomuhendo Henry, speaking to Jubilee Radio, said public trials help communities understand how justice is administered.
He noted that witnessing court proceedings and their outcomes can discourage individuals from engaging in criminal behavior, as they become more aware of the consequences.
However, not all residents share this view. Mutunzi Robert, a local activist, criticized the mobile courts as a costly intervention with limited long-term benefits. He argued that the initiative places a strain on public resources, citing expenses related to transporting judicial officers and providing security.
Mutunzi added that while such sessions are conducted periodically, permanent courts remain
Adding another perspective, Marjorie Kansiime emphasized the need for fairness and inclusivity in the justice system. She questioned whether the same level of urgency and openness is applied to other cases, particularly those involving individuals who have spent extended periods in detention without trial.
Kansiime argued that justice should be equally accessible to all, regardless of the nature of the case or the individuals involved.
Despite differing opinions, several residents agreed that while mobile public courts have potential benefits, their impact will depend on the establishment of a clear and sustainable long-term strategy. Many called for a more consistent judicial presence that serves communities beyond occasional outreach sessions.
The Judiciary introduced mobile public courts as part of broader efforts to reduce case backlogs, address impunity especially in remote areas and rebuild public confidence in the legal system by making court processes more visible and accessible at the grassroots level.