The Principal Judge, Frances Abodo, has urged communities in the Acholi sub-region to embrace out-of-court mechanisms in resolving land disputes, citing their effectiveness, accessibility, and cultural relevance.
Speaking in response to concerns raised during a recent court open day, Justice Abodo noted that the majority of cases in the region are land-related, many involving boundary disagreements that could be resolved more efficiently within communities.
“Not every land dispute must go through the formal court system. Many of these issues can be handled faster and more amicably at the community level,” she said.
She emphasized the importance of strengthening Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, which the Judiciary is actively promoting as a way to reduce case backlog and improve access to justice.
However, Justice Abodo clarified that more complex disputes—especially those requiring detailed legal interpretation—should still be handled through the formal courts to ensure fairness and legality.
Her remarks come after residents raised concerns about delays, high legal costs, and procedural challenges in the justice system.
Meanwhile, assurances were given that safeguards are in place to ensure fairness and transparency in community-based dispute resolution processes.
Judiciary officials say promoting ADR is part of broader efforts to make justice more accessible while easing pressure on courts, particularly in regions where land disputes remain prevalent.
