Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera has called upon mediators to adhere to legal standards while handling reconciliations in communities.

He made the call on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, while opening a two-day training on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) at Akello Hotel in Soroti.

The training, which brings together judicial officers, advocates, mediators, and community leaders all together, aims to boost the skills needed for handling disputes effectively.

In his opening remarks, Justice Buteera stressed that mediators ensure that the agreements made during mediation adhere to the law and reflect societal values.

“Mediations should be done in conformity with the law. Don’t assist people to reach an agreement that breaches the law,” Justice Buteera said.

Justice Buteera also reassured the community that the judiciary is committed to improving access to justice through enhanced mediation processes. He noted that effective mediation can significantly reduce the backlog of cases in courts, making it a more efficient way to settle disputes.

Hon. Justice Wamala Boniface, the Soroti Resident Judge, commended the Judiciary for organizing a timely training, pointing out how crucial it is for making justice work better.

He acknowledged the ongoing challenges in mediation, especially the shortages in training and money for mediators, and stressed how important it is for mediators to have a good attitude to achieve desired outcomes.

The training, under the theme “Re-Engineering Alternative Dispute Resolution in Administration of Justice,” was supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Development Law Organization, which represents a significant investment to boost the capacity of Uganda’s judicial system.