By Sylvia Kugonza
The Deputy Chief Justice, His Worship Richard Buteera, has yesterday officially opened a two-day training session for 37 mediators on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) for civil cases. The training, organized by the Judiciary, is being held in Fort Portal, in the Tooro sub-region.
About the Training
The session aims to train mediators from various sectors, including lawyers, religious leaders, and representatives from cultural institutions, with the goal of enhancing their skills in resolving civil disputes. The training is taking place at Kalya Courts in Fort Portal.
His Worship Vincent Mugabo, the Fort Portal Resident Judge, explained that the training would produce accredited mediators who would support the community in resolving civil cases. These mediators will assist in handling cases such as land disputes, family matters, succession issues, and other civil disputes within the region.
Judge Mugabo emphasized that the mediation process would not only improve access to justice but also help reduce the backlog of court cases.
Majority of cases could be settled outside court
According to Judge Mugabo, of the 450 civil cases filed in the region, approximately 70% could be resolved through mediation outside of court. He encouraged the public to embrace mediation as a viable alternative to lengthy court processes. He also noted that many civil cases in the Fort Portal area involve family members or close relations, and he believes mediation can help resolve these disputes amicably.
In his address, Justice Buteera clarified that the role of mediators is not to act as judges but to assist the parties in conflict to find mutually agreeable solutions. He emphasized that mediation is about empowering each party to engage in open dialogue and reach a settlement by their own free will.
