Professor Sukhsimranjit Singh Delivers Keynote Address for 7th Annual National Plea Bargaining Conference in Uganda

The 7th Annual National Plea Bargaining Conference was held at the Supreme Court Conference Hall, Judiciary Headquarters in Kampala, Uganda on June 21. In his remotely delivered keynote address, professor Sukhsimranjit Singh, director of the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, emphasized the importance of understanding cultural differences, respect, patience, and empathy in negotiations especially as it applies to implementing mediation policy and procedure across nations. Justice Jane Francis Abodo also highlighted the need to balance customs with the law.

At the conference, Justice Abodo stated that some severe cases cannot be negotiated due to the serious nature of the crimes. She advised defense lawyers to properly explain the plea bargaining process to accused persons to avoid uninformed decisions. She also reminded judicial officers to follow proper procedures, ensuring there is a plea agreement and a complete court record. The conference was part of a series of training programs supported by Pepperdine University. Justice Adobo gave special thanks to Pepperdine students currently serving in internships with the Supreme Court and to professor Andrew Khaukha, Judiciary Technical Advisor, for their support. The conference was part of a broader series of training programs for the judiciary. The conference was attended by Pepperdine University president Jim Gash and vice-president Danny DeWalt.  

Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera thanked Pepperdine University for training court-accredited mediators and promised to continue with more training. He mentioned that the Judiciary is focusing on alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, including mediation programs to improve efficiency.

Additional information may be found at The Judiciary of Uganda