Juvenile justice in focus as chief magistrate proposes center in Pajule

3 June 2026, 6:27 pm

By Geoffrey Okwong

The need for a dedicated juvenile center in Pajule has been highlighted as a key step toward addressing challenges facing young offenders in the district. 

During a sensitization session for local leaders at Pajule Health Center IV, officials emphasized that limited resources and long distances to existing facilities often force courts to release juveniles prematurely, leaving gaps in mentorship and rehabilitation.

Martins Kirya, Chief Magistrate of Pader, explained that Pajule, being a gazetted court, faces particular difficulties in managing juvenile cases. 

With the only juvenile facility in the Acholi sub-region located in Gulu city, transporting children to court is challenging. 

He called for stronger coordination between local authorities, judiciary headquarters, and community mechanisms to address these challenges effectively.

Speaking at the same session, Tito Brilliant Okello, Chairperson of Pajule Urban Council III, emphasized the role of cultural institutions in supporting justice and community development. 

He encouraged local leaders to align traditional practices with constitutional law and highlighted the potential of underutilized public land for communal projects. 

Okello also stressed the importance of retaining trained personnel and knowledge, particularly with upcoming elections, to ensure continuity of initiatives.

Local leaders present at the session praised the initiative. 

Esther Aloyo, Chairperson of LC I Akwara West Ward, commended the Chief Magistrate for the training, saying it improved her ability to think technically and make wise decisions when handling difficult community matters. 

She added that the training gave her new understanding and better reasoning for managing stubborn individuals in her village.

Meanwhile, Richard Odongkara, Chairperson of LC I Oil West, said the training will help him lead his community without conflicting with the law. 

He noted that the skills and understanding acquired through the session equip him to execute his duties more effectively and urged that similar engagements be held in the future for other local leaders.

Both Kirya and Okello agreed that collaboration between the judiciary, local authorities, and cultural institutions is essential for promoting justice, reducing conflict, and fostering sustainable development in Pajule.