By Eumu Emmanuel
In a letter addressed to the President and officially received at State House on May 14, 2025, MP Julius Acon has petitioned against the relocation of the Otuke court to Patongo. Acon described the move as detrimental to court users from Otuke, Alebtong, and surrounding areas, citing logistical burdens and limited access to justice
The MP expressed concern that the shift would cause more harm than good, particularly to vulnerable residents seeking timely justice. He noted that Patongo is 89km from Otuke, while Lira is only 66km away, resulting in increased transport costs and delays. This extra distance would make court attendance more difficult, especially for the poor.
Acon also pointed out that Lira City has more accommodation facilities for litigants, lawyers, and witnesses who may need to stay overnight during court proceedings. Furthermore, he cited statistics showing that Otuke and Alebtong districts register a significant number of criminal cases, arguing that relocating the court to a distant location could hinder the prosecution and fair handling of these matters.
To address these concerns, MP Acon proposed two alternatives:
1. Establishment of a new High Court circuit to serve Otuke, Alebtong, and Dokolo districts, easing access to justice.
2. Return of Otuke’s jurisdiction to Lira High Court if a new circuit is not possible.
The petition was copied to relevant authorities, including the Chief Justice, Deputy Chief Justice, and the Chairperson of the Lango Parliamentary Group. Acon emphasized that the current arrangement does not serve the interests of the people and called for urgent reconsideration to ensure fair, faster, and more efficient justice delivery to the people of Otuke and neighboring districts.