Digital system transforms judiciary operations

THE Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has applauded the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) for its positive impact on the justice system, calling it a “game-changer” for Zimbabwe.

The system was introduced in 2022 and has notably reduced case backlogs, improved efficiency, reduced costs, and increased accessibility for marginalised groups.

Initially implemented in the Constitutional Court, the system has since expanded to other courts, including the Supreme Court, High Court, Labour Court and the Sheriff’s Office.

The web-based platform automates and tracks cases from inception to resolution, introducing transparency and efficiency in the judicial process. The digital platform allows litigants to file documents and attend court virtually, reducing costs and logistical barriers.

The JSC has created e-filing centres to bridge the digital divide, and new court facilities are being constructed across peri-urban and rural areas like Epworth, Lupane, and Chikombedzi.

Projects in Gwanda and Chiredzi are nearing completion.

Performance contracts for judges and administrative personnel are also being introduced to ensure quality justice. The IECMS is a critical part of Zimbabwe’s judicial reform, ensuring justice is accessible for all and aligning with broader national development goals.

Addressing a recent joint induction workshop for the Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and Thematic Committee on Human Rights in Bulawayo on Sunday, JSC’s head of policy and legal services, Ms Bianca Makwande, stressed the system’s impact on marginalised groups.

“The primary target group were the vulnerable members of society whose engagement with the judiciary was stifled by the prohibitive costs associated with accessing the conventional models of justice,” she said.

Ms Makwande said the system has significantly improved case tracking, finalisation, and virtual court hearings, addressing long-standing issues such as inefficiency, corruption, and the frequent loss of court records.

“The system introduced a host of benefits which include electronic payments, electronic filing and service as well as ensuring the end–to–end management of a case life cycle. The system has produced markedly positive results in case tracking, case finalisation, virtual court hearings, and service of documents,” she said.

To bridge the digital divide, the JSC has established e-filing centres at every court across the country’s 10 provinces and over 50 court stations.

These centres are equipped to assist those without internet access, allowing them to file and track cases and attend virtual hearings.

“Litigants who do not have internet access can attend virtual court at these e-filing centres. The annual statistical review of the performance of the courts reflects a significant decline in the case backlog status in the superior courts,” she said.

In line with the National Development Strategy 1 (2021-2025), the JSC is also investing in the construction of court facilities, such as the new Commercial Court Complex in Harare, which will be Zimbabwe’s first digitally equipped court.

“In addition, as part of the JSC’s strategic plan to ensure easy access to justice for all, the organisation has commissioned several court complexes in peri-urban locations such as Epworth, Lupane and Chikombedzi,” said Ms Makwande.

“The establishment of court centres outside traditionally recognised city locations is part of the JSC’s goal to bring justice to the doorstep of the public.” — @nqotshili