malvernmugadzikwa
Nyore Madzianike
THE Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is constructing eight new magistrates’ courts in various parts of the country as part of a decentralisation programme aimed at improving access to justice.
The new courts are being constructed in Gwanda, Mutawatawa, Cowdray Park (Bulawayo), Beatrice, Banket, Brunapeg, Kwekwe and Mabvuku (Harare).
Overall, the JSC has established 35 news courts over the last decade.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, JSC spokesperson Mr Daniel Nemukuyu said: “Since the inception of JSC in 2010, we have managed to construct a total of 35 new courts countrywide. We are working around the clock to decentralise and bring justice to the people through construction of township courts.
“The Epworth Magistrates’ Court, which opened in 2023, was the first one and we have now acquired land to build more courts in different cities.”
He thanked local authorities that have provided land for the programme.
“In fact, the JSC expresses its sincere gratitude to the local authorities for their generous cooperation in providing land for the establishment of township courts,” he said.
“This collaborative effort is vital in enhancing access to justice for our communities and reflects our shared commitment to improving judicial services. Harare City Council allocated us land to build another court in Mabvuku and we have since fenced the land and construction has now started.
“However, council promised us more land to build courts in Highfield, Hopley and Budiriro. We are still waiting to be officially allocated stands there.”
In Mutare, the JSC applied for land to build a court in Sakubva, a densely populated area, but the allocation has not yet been done.
The Mutare City Council has, however, offered alternative land in Dangamvura and Hobhouse.
“While we are grateful for the offer, we pray that Mutare will also consider our application for land in Sakubva,” added Mr Nemukuyu.
“In Bulawayo, the local authority has so far allocated us land to build courts in Emganwini and Cowdray Park.”
The Gweru City Council has also provided land for a court in Mkoba, and the JSC is mobilising resources to start construction.
Speaking during the official opening of magistrates’ courts in Triangle and Chiredzi last week, Chief Justice Luke Malaba said JSC’s strategic focus was on providing easy access to justice for local communities.
The JSC, he said, was focused on aligning with the foundational principles of decentralisation and devolution.
“These principles underpin the value of good governance in terms of Section 3 of the Constitution.
“Their purposive interpretation establishes that all arms of the State must
devolve and decentralise Government power and functions,” said Chief Justice Malaba.
“These principles also have utility in relation to the function of the Judiciary.
“The JSC will continue to capacitate the Judiciary to enable the effective decentralisation of judicial authority to local communities.
“This is because public confidence directly influences the Judiciary’s efficacy as an institution of public service.”
Online Reporter