Story by Peter Chivhima
THE decentralisation of the justice delivery system is on course, with the Epworth Magistrates Court set to open its doors to the public on the 24th of February.
In an interview with ZBC News on the sidelines of a tour of the new Epworth court house this Tuesday, Judicial Service Commission (JSC) Secretary Mr Walter Chikwanha revealed that the facility will be officially opened in February with similar structures set to be constructed across the country.
“The purpose of the visit today here in Epworth was to check if everything was in order, so that we can meet our set target of opening this court before the end of next month. We are satisfied with the progress taking place here and all is according to order.
“Decentralising courts to the townships is very important so that we can decongest our courts. We are now working on finishing touches and the work is progressing to what we have agreed. We are in the process of constructing more courts countrywide,” said Mr Chikwanha.
The Epworth Court House will be manned by two magistrates and is for criminal and civil matters.
Meanwhile, the JSC is set to launch the Second Phase of the Electronic Integrated Case management system this Wednesday.
This follows the successful launch of the first phase last year, which attracted the attention of the entire SADC region.
Public confidence in the justice delivery system is essential for maintaining peace, order and the rule of law.
