The Judicial Service Commission to host regional symposium on electoral justice

THE Judicial Service Commission is set to host a regional symposium on Electoral Justice in the resort city of Victoria Falls from January 31 to February 2.

Organised by the Africa Electoral Justice Network (AEJN), the conference will run under the theme: “Making the dream of the African Charter a reality: The role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law with specific reference to free, fair and credible elections in Africa”.

The gathering will bring together distinguished judges, legal experts and scholars from across the region to deliberate on key issues surrounding electoral processes and the role of the judiciary in ensuring free, fair and transparent elections.

“The symposium will serve as a platform for sharing experiences, best practices and innovative approaches to electoral justice among the participating nations.

“It will provide an opportunity for judges to engage in insightful discussions, exchange knowledge and strengthen cooperation in this critical area,” JSC spokesperson Mr Daniel Nemukuyu said.

He said the invitation has been extended to 50 esteemed judges from various jurisdictions within the region, noting that their presence and active participation will contribute significantly to the success of this symposium.

The event will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, workshops and interactive sessions, enabling participants to explore emerging challenges and identify effective strategies for addressing them.

Mr Nemukuyu said the venue is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural significance, which offers an ideal setting for this important gathering.

“Delegates will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an atmosphere conducive to productive dialogue and networking,” he said.

“The Judicial Service Commission is committed to promoting the rule of law and upholding the independence of the judiciary. By organising this symposium, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of electoral justice principles and enhance the capacity of judges to adjudicate election-related disputes with fairness, impartiality and expertise.

“We extend our gratitude to all the participants, sponsors and partners who have generously supported this initiative. Their commitment to the cause of electoral justice reinforces our collective goal of strengthening democratic processes within the region.”

Mr Nemukuyu said the JSE looks forward to welcoming the distinguished judges and esteemed guests to the regional symposium.

He said as a region, the justice system strives to advance the principles of justice, democracy and good governance. AEJN, to which Zimbabwe is a member, is a regional forum that brings together judges and individuals who adjudicate electoral disputes in courts, tribunals and judicial election management bodies from across the African continent.

AEJN was established to facilitate peer-to-peer knowledge exchange among a diverse and inclusive group of election arbiters.

It aims to provide peer support for election judges and arbiters dealing with politically sensitive and challenging disputes and violations, strengthen the capacity of election monitoring bodies and the judiciary to resolve electoral cases and disputes, while helping entrench and apply norms across the region.

As Africa continues on its trajectory of expanding its democracy, good governance, observance of the rule of law, and respect for human rights for more inclusive societies, sustainable peace, security and development, Mr Nemukuyu said it was important that intentional interventions be adopted to strengthen electoral justice systems and enhance the quality of democratic elections on the continent.

He said the promotion, nurturing, strengthening and consolidation of democracy, are fundamental issues that call for regional dialogue amongst and between persons and bodies that are involved in the promotion of electoral justice.

“This symposium will offer judges an opportunity for experiential exchange of ideas and learning from each other as well as bestow the network an opportunity to regularise its business,” said Mr Nemukuyu.

The symposium follows the inaugural Africa Regional Electoral Justice Network conference in Johannesburg South Africa, held in April 2019 and the follow-up in-person symposium held from 19 to 20 July 2022 in Malawi under the theme “Judges on the Frontline of African Democracy — Enhancing the Electoral Dispute Adjudication Process”.