By Diana N. Kintu
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has commenced a week-long induction programme for 38 newly appointed State Attorneys in Mbarara, marking a significant step in strengthening Uganda’s prosecutorial service. The induction, taking place at the Las Vegas Hotel, is intended to equip the new recruits with the professional, ethical, and practical foundations required to execute their duties effectively.
The programme was officially opened by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Lino Anguzu, who congratulated the attorneys upon their appointment and welcomed them into public service. In his remarks, he underscored the importance of integrity and personal discipline in the legal profession, noting that the role of a prosecutor extends beyond legal expertise.
“The responsibility you have undertaken requires more than technical competence. It demands strong character. You must anchor your service on devotion to the cause, dedication to duty, and discipline in conduct,” he said.
The Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, John Baptist Asiimwe, emphasised the central role of victims in the justice system. He reminded the attorneys that their work should prioritise fairness and justice rather than focusing solely on securing convictions. He further encouraged continuous learning and adaptability in a dynamic legal environment.
“Your primary client is the victim of crime. Remain open to learning, unlearning, and relearning as the justice system evolves. Uphold fairness at all times, and do not be driven merely by the desire to win cases,” he advised, while cautioning against corruption and ethical compromise.
Permanent Secretary Agnes Khainza highlighted the importance of the induction in preparing the attorneys for the demands of public service. She noted that prosecutors serve as ministers of justice and act as representatives of the ODPP in their day-to-day work.
“You are the voice of this institution in the courtroom and beyond. Serve with honour, wisdom, and integrity, bearing in mind the weight of your decisions,” she said.
Also present at the opening was International Development Law Organization (IDLO), represented by Programmes Manager Samson Asiimwe. He reaffirmed the organisation’s continued partnership with the ODPP in promoting the rule of law and strengthening justice systems. He expressed optimism that the newly inducted attorneys would enhance the institution’s capacity and improve access to justice across the country.
Head of Field Operations, Barbara Kawuma, encouraged the new prosecutors to embrace innovation in their work. She urged them to harness technology and modern approaches in delivering justice efficiently and effectively.
The induction programme will cover a wide range of topics designed to prepare the attorneys for their roles. These include the constitutional mandate of the ODPP, its organisational structure, and practical training in key areas such as plea bargaining, trial advocacy, human rights-based prosecution, quality assurance, and service delivery standards. Participants will also receive guidance on the conduct of criminal proceedings and professional ethics.
According to the ODPP, the initiative is aimed at ensuring that all newly recruited State Attorneys are well grounded in the institution’s core values of devotion, dedication, discipline, fairness, and integrity. The programme is expected to facilitate a smooth transition into service while strengthening the overall effectiveness of the prosecutorial system.
The induction comes at a time when the demand for efficient and fair prosecution services continues to grow across Uganda. By investing in the professional development of its staff, the ODPP seeks to reinforce public confidence in the justice system and uphold the rule of law.
Upon completion of the training, the newly inducted State Attorneys are expected to be deployed across various parts of the country, where they will play a critical role in delivering justice and safeguarding the rights of citizens.