Sidumisile Mabena
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
PROSECUTOR-General, Justice Loyce Matanda-Moyo has warned state legal officers against poorly prepared cases, saying substandard charge sheets and weak courtroom performance amount to a dereliction of duty that undermines public confidence in the justice system.
Addressing prosecutors attending the ongoing Superior Court Procedures Workshop on Appeals, Justice Matanda-Moyo said professionalism and diligence were non-negotiable in the administration of justice.
She stressed that prosecutors are not in court to secure convictions at all costs, but to ensure that justice is delivered fairly and impartially.
“The role of a prosecutor is not to win cases, but to present the truth before the court,” she said.
Justice Matanda-Moyo warned that poorly handled cases risk collapsing, thereby weakening the credibility of the justice delivery system.
She further reminded legal practitioners that their primary mandate is the pursuit of truth, noting that the scales of justice are compromised whenever cases are mishandled due to ignorance or lack of preparation.
She called for a more collaborative, ethical and professional approach among legal officers, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and strict adherence to legal standards.
Online Reporter