NEW: Thirteen judicial courts completed

Online Reporter

THE Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has completed 13 judicial courts across the country in the past five years, as Government steps up efforts to bring justice closer to the people.

Government believes that bringing courts closer to the people helps in the efficient administration of justice.

JSC head of corporate services Mr Daniel Nemukuyu said the commission has completed new courts while several others are nearing completion.

“Early 2018, the country’s fourth High Court station was commissioned in Mutare. Other courts built and commissioned under the Second Republic include Mount Darwin Magistrates’ Court; Chinhoyi Court Complex, which houses the Magistrates’ Court and the High Court; the Labour Court building in Harare, and the paperless Commercial Court in Harare, which is a division of the High Court.

“A fortnight ago, the Chief Justice (Luke Malaba) officially opened Lupane Magistrates’ Court in Matabeleland North,” said Mr Nemukuyu.

Pending projects, Mr Nemukuyu added, include Epworth Magistrates’ Court, which may be commissioned before year-end.

“We also have a massive Gwanda complex that is set to accommodate both the High Court and the Magistrates’ Court.

“In Mashonaland East, we are constructing Mutawatawa Magistrates’ Court, while in Masvingo province, Chiredzi Magistrates’ Court is under construction and the refurbishment of the Chimanimani Court is at an advanced stage.”