Criminal Justice System Reforms and Pre-Trial Detention Reduction in Uganda: An Action Research Study

Uganda's criminal justice system faces challenges in reducing pre-trial detention times, which can lead to overcrowding and human rights violations. The study employed participatory methods with stakeholders including judges, prosecutors, defence attorneys, and detainees to gather insights into current practices and suggest improvements. Participants reported a significant reduction in average pre-trial detention times from 3 months to 1 month post-reform implementation, with notable decreases among vulnerable groups such as women and minors. The reforms have shown promising results in decreasing pre-trial detention periods but face ongoing challenges related to resource allocation and judicial capacity. Continue monitoring the impact of reforms, allocate additional resources to support court operations, and enhance training for judges and prosecutors on best practices.