adminHe said the code of ethics applies to all constitutionally appointed judicial officers.
“The traditional belief that existed among judiciaries was that there existed an unwritten code of ethics that governed judges, which presumably was known to the judges themselves.
“This was justified on that basis that in relation to their judicial functions, judges are subjected to a higher degree of accountability and transparency than other public officers. The judges do their work in public, they must give reasons for their decisions and these are examined and analysed by appellate courts.
“Moreover, their decisions and conduct in court are subject to public scrutiny and to criticism in the press and other media. Judges are also subject to removal from office admittedly by a cumbersome process, for misbehaviour and incapacity,” he said.
JP Chiweshe said as a transitional measure, magistrates and their support staff remain governed by the Public Service Regulations pending the development by the JSC of its institution specific service regulations.
The operationalisation of the Judicial Service Act in January last year, JP Chiweshe said, brought about control of the judiciary’s budget and this has seen a marked improvement in its operations.
He said with the coming into force of the Judicial Service Act in 2010, and that until January last year, the judiciary’s budget fell under the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, whose priorities did not always coincide with those of the judiciary.
“The control of our budget has enabled us to set our own priorities in terms of what activities we believe will enhance our operations, and, ultimately have a positive impact on justice delivery.
“For example, the supply of basics such as stationery and office provisions has dramatically improved. Magisterial circuit courts that had been abandoned due to unavailability of vehicles have now been resuscitated,” he said.
JP Chiweshe said in addition to working on improving court operations, the JSC also worked on other important projects aimed at bringing into being a more efficient and accountable judiciary.
The JSC developed a five-year strategic plan after embarking on a consultative process involving all stakeholders.
An intensive eight month strategic planning process was conducted with the plan being finalised in November last year and will be published soon.
The JSC also adopted a lean and cost effective structure that will ensure speedy and efficient delivery of quick decision turnaround time.
Online Reporter