DPP: 38 districts lack government prosecutors

What the report says

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions says 38 districts in Uganda do not have State Attorneys, creating gaps in criminal case handling and forcing some files to be moved to neighbouring districts. Director of Public Prosecutions Lino Anguzu disclosed the staffing shortage during a press briefing in Kampala on the performance of the ODPP and its wider role in the criminal justice system.

According to The Independent Uganda, Anguzu said the absence of prosecutors is affecting service delivery in districts such as Rwampara, Rukiga, Madi-Okollo, Buvuma and Kalaki. In some areas, police prosecutors are handling cases because there are no government prosecutors posted there, raising concerns about capacity in more complex matters. The ODPP said transferring files adds pressure on nearby offices and may delay justice for complainants and accused persons alike.

The report also said the ODPP is describing broader operational gains at the same time. It cited improved conviction rates in gender-based violence and corruption cases, as well as progress through plea bargaining, daily hearings in capital cases, anti-corruption recoveries and the rollout of digital case-management tools. The office says it is also expanding training, vehicles and public outreach.

The staffing shortage remains important because it highlights uneven access to prosecution services across the country. In general, such gaps can slow case processing and complicate efforts to reduce backlogs, even when overall conviction and case-disposal figures are improving.