Judges, magistrates urged to return to work

The Ugandan Government is appealing to striking judges and magistrates to return to work, The Observer reports. Judges and magistrates abandoned court rooms the week before last, complaining the government failed to improve their working conditions. They want the salary of the Chief Justice to be raised to $15 290 from the $5 560 he currently earns. They want the lowest-paid magistrate to earn at least $3 600 a month. They are also demanding medical insurance, housing and fuel allowances. Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Kahinda Otafiire said high-level consultations have been conducted between the executive, the judiciary and the Judicial Service Commission to address the matter, the report notes.