The judiciary has announced indefinite cessation of operations of the Supreme Court citing safety concerns following a fire outbreak which destroyed part of the court premises.
On 27th April 2022, a mysterious fire broke out at the premises housing the Supreme Court at Kololo destroying part of the Chief Justice’ chambers.
In a memo issued today, and copied to among others; the Deputy CJ, Attorney General, the Principal Judge, and the DPP, the Chief Justice Alphonse Owiny Dollo stated that due to water leakages resulting into ceilings collapsing and as well water flooding in the chambers of their lordships, has damaged furniture, books and other court properties.
“These incidents have made it unsafe to continue occupation of the said premises without a proper assessment of the damage, and affecting proper rectification… for these reasons, the top management of the judiciary has decided, and I hereby direct that the Supreme Court be closed as the premises undergo renovations and rectification of the defects” CJ Owiny Dollo stated.
“In the meantime, you are all advised to execute your work from home until further notice” he adds.
However, the CJ notes that the court registry and the ECCMIS center will remain open to handle the usual business of the court. And while the court remains closed, the memo indicates that the court administrator shall ensure that the justice on duty shall operate from the High Court building at the judiciary headquarters.
Owiny Dollo says he will notify their lordships Judges of the Supreme Court the date when full operations shall resume upon issuance of the certificate from relevant authorities that the premises are safe for occupation.
