By Kelly Napolo:
Chief Justice Rezine Mzikamanda has emphasised the judiciary’s commitment to clearing outstanding cases and reduce delays in the system.
Mzikamanda made the commitment yesterday during the launch of the 2024- 25 judicial calendar at the judiciary complex in Blantyre.
The Chief Justice highlighted the judiciary’s ongoing efforts to modernise the court system as part of the intervention to improve service delivery.
He announced that the implementation of e-courts is currently in the pilot phase in several districts and is aimed at reducing backlog and delays in legal proceedings.
- Advertisement -
“This initiative will significantly expedite court processes and improve efficiency,” Mzikamanda noted.
A Malawi Judiciary Annual Report of 2023 shows that judges in the country face a backlog of around 2,500 cases.
Speaking at the event, Malawi Law Society chairperson Patrick Mpaka urged the government to lead by example in honouring judgment debts.
He underlined the significance of the government fulfilling its legal obligations.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -
He referenced Section 174c of the Malawi Constitution which mandates the government to settle any financial judgments made against it by courts or tribunals, excluding those covered by the National Compensation Fund.
“We are asking the Attorney General to ensure that the government honours judgment debts, irrespective of the status of the individuals involved.
“As they plan for the upcoming judicial year, this issue must be a priority,” Mpaka stated.
The Malawi Judicial calendar starts on the first Tuesday of October.
To celebrate the event, judicial officers hold the Sherry party which also serves as a platform for brainstorming ways to enhance judicial services.
