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Attorney General’s chambers pen in Masaka as Ministry of Justice expands Services

Manuel Mawejje
Ministry of Justice and Consititutional Affairs

The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA) has officially opened the Attorney General’s Chambers in Masaka District, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to decentralise justice services and bring them closer to the people.

Located at Plot 46, Bukoba Link, Masaka–Kyotera Road, New Kumbu, the new Chambers will serve the Masaka High Court Circuit, reducing the logistical challenges that have long affected service delivery in the region. Previously, State Attorneys operated from Mbarara, requiring travel of up to 74 miles to attend court sessions in Masaka.

The establishment of the Chambers is expected to significantly improve efficiency in the administration of justice. With State Attorneys now based within proximity to the court, the justice system will benefit from timely court appearances, improved case preparation, quicker instructions, and more effective participation in mediation.

Speaking at the commissioning, the Guest of Honour, Hon. Justice Victoria N. Katamba, Senior Resident Judge of the High Court at Masaka, highlighted the impact of distance on justice delivery. She noted that delays in proceedings, missed hearing dates, and stalled mediation sessions have often been the result of logistical constraints rather than a lack of diligence.

“The presence of the Attorney General’s Chambers within the court circuit will ensure a more responsive, efficient, and present justice system,” she noted.

The Chambers will support a wide range of government legal functions, including civil litigation, legal advisory services, and representation of the State in court. This will also facilitate prompt filing of pleadings, consistent representation of the government, early resolution of disputes involving the State, and protection of taxpayers’ interests.

The Masaka High Court Circuit serves a vast jurisdiction of approximately eleven districts, making coordination among justice sector stakeholders essential. The presence of the Chambers is expected to strengthen collaboration among judicial officers, State Attorneys, law enforcement agencies, probation services, and other actors within the justice system.

This development is part of the Ministry’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030, which prioritises expanding service delivery through regionalisation. The opening of the Masaka Chambers complements the rollout of new regional offices across the country, including Kabale, Hoima, Iganga, and Lira, in line with the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening access to justice nationwide.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that justice services are accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of all citizens.