With effect from 20th March 2020, court hearings and court appearances in Uganda have been suspended for a period of 32 days, as an administrative and contingency measure to mitigate the coronavirus threat.
According to a circular issues today by the Chief Justice Bart Katureebe, judicial business has been suspended in line with President Museveni’s directive on prevention and mitigation of CODIV-19.
On March 18, President Museveni suspended public gatherings as a preventive measure in the fight against coronavirus transmission.
During this time, prisoners and remandees will not be presented to courts. Where possible however, proceedings may be conducted via video link.
Justice Katureebe noted that courts will only continue to handle certificates of urgency and taking plea for serious cases and and bail applications.
During the same time, all judicial officers and staff of courts will continue being on duty, but there will be no court appearances. Where possible he says, judgments and rulings may be issued to the parties online or via e-mail.