Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya, the Land Division judge at the High Court, has urged magistrates to take precedence when it comes to children’s rights and seek more information before making any decision concerning them.

Justice Kazaarwe made this remark during a presentation on The Law and Practice of Custody and Maintenance of Children on the 5th day of the induction of 88 newly appointed Grade One Magistrates on November 3, 2023, at the Colline Hotel, Mukono.

Among the topics discussed were the rights of children, welfare and guiding principles in the application of child rights, and custody of children.

Justice Kazaarwe emphasized that when it comes to children, their rights take precedence, and their best interests must always be prioritized.

“When it comes to matters concerning children, prioritize them because the law mandates it, and it should be evident that you are prioritizing them,” she said.

She reminded participants that they are the children’s hope and urged them to refrain from corruption while maintaining their integrity when handling situations involving children.

The induction of the magistrates is to improve their work and increase the quality of service delivery.