Pader Magistrate to start training of local leaders to strengthen justice systems amid case management challenges

2 June 2026, 10:10 pm

Sign post indicating the Chief Magistrates court of Pader

By Geoffrey Okwong

Martins Kirya, the Chief Magistrate of Pader District, is set to launch a program to strengthen the local justice system by training Local Council (LC) leaders and traditional village authorities, while addressing ongoing challenges in case management.

Speaking from his chambers at Pader District Court, Kirya said the initiative is part of a government program under the Local Council Act, aimed at equipping local leaders to handle minor disputes efficiently. 

“Many cases, especially land disputes involving over 100 acres, begin at the grassroots. Local leaders are trusted by the community, and it is essential to equip them to manage these cases properly before they escalate to formal courts,” he explained.

Kirya highlighted challenges local leaders face, including knowledge gaps, procedural loopholes, and political appointments that sometimes compromise impartial justice.

The training program, starting in Pajule Town Council, will initially target 50 local leaders in LC1s and LC2s, guiding them on case handling, documentation, and which disputes should be referred to formal courts. Radio programs and community outreach will also ensure leaders in remote areas benefit.

The Chief Magistrate noted difficulties in the courts, such as absent witnesses and weak evidence, which often lead to dismissals.

Kirya added that magistrates now handle high-value cases—some up to 100 million shillings—while chief magistrates manage even larger disputes.

Despite these challenges, the district court aims to resolve pending cases efficiently, targeting 600 priority cases, emphasizing strategic case management to ensure fairness.

Kirya concluded that local leaders are an integral part of the justice system and they must be trained, supported, and integrated into the broader judicial framework urging communities to cooperate with the courts, provide evidence, and respect legal processes.

The training, beginning tomorrow at Pajule Town Council, will target 50 leaders, including LC1s and LC2s from the town council. Pending the outcomes, the exercise will be rolled out to other sub-counties, with Pader Town Council scheduled to follow Pajule.