Role of Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in performance of the human resource function of the Judiciary in Uganda

Abstract

The purpose of this study was conceived under the broad goal of establishing the role of JSC in performance of the human resource functions of the Judiciary in Uganda. JSC is mandated to run the Human Resource Function of the Judiciary. However, the Judiciary in any given democratic state is the body mandated to interpret the law, and to ensure that citizens benefit from due process. The study was guided by three research objectives which were; to examine the role of JSC in performance of the human resource function of the Judiciary in Uganda, to examine the challenges of JSC in performing the HR function of the Judiciary and to identify possible strategies of improving JSC in exercising the HR function. The study used both quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional research designs which were non-experimental in nature and units of analysis were individuals in the justice, law and order sector. Primary data was collected using closed and open ended questionnaire approach as a quantitative survey research design while interview guides were used as a qualitative method. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive statistics yet qualitative data was coded explanatory to supplement the former. Results revealed that JSC plays the role of effectively enhancing staff career growth, retain the staff, appointment of staff, review on terms and conditions, conduct disciplinary proceedings and advise the president on the appointments of Chief Justice, Deputy Chief Justice, Principal Judge, Justices of the Supreme court, Court of Appeal and judges of the high court in the performance of the Human Resource Function of Judiciary amidst, challenges including corruption, understaffing, inadequate funding and lack of independence. Strategies in mitigation were increase on funding, staffing, amend law to deal with corruption and strengthen independence of the Judiciary. The study recommends that government should amend the law to make JSC totally independent in management of the human resource function of the judiciary.