Zimbabwe recently welcomed 23 new magistrates, a move expected to alleviate the significant backlog of cases and expedite the dispensation of justice in the country. Chief Magistrate Mrs. Faith Mushure, who presided over the swearing-in ceremony, emphasized the vital role these new appointments will play in addressing the backlog.
The freshly sworn-in magistrates, comprising 15 males and eight females, are set to bolster the existing pool of 250 magistrates in Zimbabwe. Within this cohort, there are 146 female and 104 male magistrates, who primarily handle criminal cases and lower levels of civil law.
Chief Magistrate Mrs. Faith Mushure remarked, “At this ceremony, we have just witnessed for the first time in history the swearing in of more male magistrates than females, with 15 of them being male and eight female magistrates.”
Acknowledging the impact of the new appointments, she stated, “The coming in of new magistrates will go a long way in helping to clear backlogs.” This reinforcement is part of the organization’s strategy to enhance staff wholeness, reduce overworking, and ensure quality judgments.
To address the backlog effectively, 10 of the newly appointed magistrates will be deployed in Harare Province, which currently grapples with a high number of outstanding cases. Additionally, other magistrates will be stationed in new areas like Shamva and Nembudziya, where new courts will be established, facilitating the expeditious resolution of cases.
In a bid to streamline court proceedings and enhance efficiency, the Judicial Service Commission is preparing to launch the fourth phase of the Integrated Case Management System (ICMS) in magistrates’ courts by the end of the year. This technological advancement aims to ensure the compatibility of all stakeholders with the system, including the collection of email addresses from accused persons. The Chief Magistrate stressed the necessity of this preparatory step to avoid any unforeseen disruptions upon the system’s official rollout.
Addressing the issue of corruption within the judicial system, the Chief Magistrate affirmed a commitment to thorough investigations of any allegations. Furthermore, efforts are underway to improve service conditions for magistrates, exemplified by the provision of vehicles to all senior magistrates last year, aimed at alleviating work-related pressures.
The swearing-in of the new magistrates signifies a pivotal step towards enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of Zimbabwe’s judicial system, which holds profound implications for the delivery of swift and fair justice.
