The Deputy Chief justice Richard Buteera has urged court users to engage in Mediation as a way of resolving court disputes without under going a full court trial.
Justice Buteera made the call after the court of Appeal successfully Mediated it's first ever 3.2 billion shillings case concerning the administration of the Estate of the Late Anslem Semakula Musoke after the appellants agreed to withdraw the case.
Justice Buteera stated that although the case was complex , he was satisfied that, through Mediation, the parties not only reached an agreement but also reconciled and committed to living in peace and harmony.
He emphasized the efficiency of the process in saving time and resources, preventing the need for further appeals.
He commended the parties involved in the innovation of Appellate Mediation at the Court of Appeal, adding that there are developments in drafting of the Appellate Mediation Rules by the Law Reform Committee of the Judiciary where consultation of different stakeholders is being done.
Acknowledging the success of the pilot program, the Deputy CJ noted that the Court of Appeal conducted 60 Mediation and successfully concluded 32 appeals through Appellate Mediation in the previous year.
Justice Buteera also noted that this mechanism saves on time and cost as well as preventing cases from progressing to the Supreme Court.
HW Dr. Alex Mushabe Karocho (Deputy Registrar in charge of Appellate Mediation) thanked the litigants in the case, emphasizing that mediation is a collaborative effort where the agreement ultimately belongs to the parties involved.
He commended the advocates for their patience and skills demonstrated in listening, participating and guiding the parties.
