By Kudakwashe Vhenge
In a development that is set to improve access of judicial information, government through the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has established a website for purposes of disseminating information on the operations and administration of courts.
This was revealed by Chief Justice Luke Malaba on the official opening of the 2020 legal year earlier this week.
This year’s theme was “Judicial Transparency and Accountability”.
Malaba said the website will allow interaction between the courts and citizens and will go a long way in demystifying myths and stereotypes that surround court administration, proceedings and outcomes.
“The use of Website is among pertinent steps in the Judiciary’s quest to enhance transparency and accountability in the conduct of its business. In that regard, the publication of court judgments and court rolls, the provision of a complaints portal and other functions on the JSC website is testimony to a Judiciary that is ready to be fair, transparent and responsive to the needs of the constituency it serves,” said Malaba.
Malaba also assured that the JSC will constantly update the website and keep people gratified with information availed to them.
Court proceedings will also be live streamed.
“Due to the dynamism of technology, the Commission will continue to seek ways of improving the website. This enables constant availability of information necessary to inform litigants and the public of what is happening in the courts,” added Malaba.
A lot of information on Judiciary proceedings in the country has been circulating in the public space, particularly on social media.
The information when not confirmed and explained, damages the reputation of courts and its personnel.
Questions have also been raised on the independence of the country’s judiciary from government’s interference.
For the first time, JSC has hired services of a communications officer responsible for informing the public on pertinent issues involving the Judiciary.
