By KYEMBE KARIM , Magistrate G1, Pallisa Chief Magistrate’s Court
Published: December 30, 2025
In a powerful demonstration of people-centered justice, a long-running family dispute in Butebo District took an unexpected turn when the respondent passed away suddenly – but thanks to timely intervention outside the traditional courtroom, peace was restored, a widow was welcomed back, and the future of five children was secured.
The case began as a typical Family and Children Court (FCC) matter. Margret (not her real name) had brought her husband, Kisse Vincent, before the court accusing him of neglecting their five children after he took a second wife. The situation was complicated by Mr. Kisse’s earlier absence from home due to allegations of embezzlement of school funds from his position as bursar.
Upon his return, tensions rose further when he asked Margret to move from their commercial house in town to a larger family house in the village, less than a kilometer away. He argued that the village home offered more space for raising the children and room for farming. Margret, however, suspected the move was intended to make way for the new wife in the town property.
Through patient mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes, an agreement was reached. Margret relocated to the village house, and Mr. Kisse committed not to bring his second wife to the town property. Instead, he promised to rent it out and use the income to pay school fees for their children. The matter was adjourned to 22nd January 2026 for review, with both parties leaving the court on amicable terms.
Tragedy struck shortly afterwards. On 29th December 2025, Mr. Kisse Vincent passed away. The burial took place the same day, but news reached the court that Margret had been violently chased away from the funeral by mourners armed with sticks and bricks. She was openly accused of causing her husband’s death.
During earlier private sessions, Mr. Kisse had disclosed to the court that he suffered from diabetes and hypertension – chronic conditions known to some family members. His sudden passing appeared linked to these underlying health issues rather than any foul play.
Guided by the principles of ADR and inspired by the recent theme of the East African Magistrates and Judges Conference – “Delivering Justice Beyond Brick and Mortar” and People-Centered Justice – the presiding magistrate took the bold step of attending the burial uninvited. Thousands of mourners had gathered.
Addressing the crowd directly, the magistrate explained the journey of the case in court: the challenges faced by the couple, the fair agreement they had reached through mediation, and Mr. Kisse’s known medical conditions. Emphasis was placed on the need for family unity in the face of grief, the welfare of the five minor children, and the importance of ensuring their continued education and stable home now that their father was gone.
The mourners listened attentively. They accepted the explanation, withdrew the accusations against Margret, and welcomed her back into the family fold. She was assured full participation in upcoming family meetings to decide on matters concerning the children and the estate.
This intervention prevented potential family breakdown at a moment of high emotion and vulnerability. It safeguarded the children’s right to a home, family unity, and education while protecting a grieving widow from exclusion and harm.
This case serves as a reminder that true justice often extends far beyond courtroom walls. ADR is not confined to formal sessions; it is a mindset that prioritizes reconciliation, understanding, and the long-term well-being of families and communities.
As judicial officers, we are called not only to resolve disputes but to heal wounds and build stronger societies – even at a burial ground, even in the midst of sorrow.
The children now have a place to call home. The family remains intact. And justice, in its most human form, has been served.
Names have been changed to protect the privacy of the family.
