The Judiciary Takes A Rest

Courts in Zimbabwe have been reduced to remand centers as an industrial action by magistrates and judiciary officials enters its eighth week. Regional magistrates have however not joined in the strike and are only dealing with remand cases. This is the first time in 27 years that the judiciary has gone on strike protesting poor working condition and low salaries.

Many seeking access to the judiciary have been denied their right to speedy justice as enshrined in the constitution. Those in custody who had hope of spending the festive season with their families fear the worst. Besides criminal cases, the magistrate courts also deals with civil cases such as marriages, solemnizing amongst others.

Lawyers expressed their concerns as their clients would have paid for their services yet the services are not delivered. This situation prompted a group of lawyers to formally request the government to urgently address the situation. A signed petition was handed to parliament on Monday in recognition of the international Human Rights Day.

“Those in custody continue to be deprived of their rights in liberty and trial within a reasonable period, all because the government is broke and unable or unwilling to give the court officials remuneration that enables them to live in dignity”, stated part of the petition.