Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
THE Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has intensified public awareness campaigns ahead of the fourth phase rollout of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), set to commence in July.
The fourth phase will focus on digitising magistrates’ courts, beginning with pilot implementations in Matabeleland North and Mashonaland Central provinces.
As part of the preparations, the JSC is conducting intensive training for court officials and stakeholders, upgrading internet and network infrastructure, and equipping courts with essential hardware to ensure a seamless transition to the digitised system.
“Since 2022, the system has been introduced in the higher courts under Phase One. Now we are moving into Phase Four, which covers magistrates’ courts, handling over 90% of our litigation cases. The rollout will be staggered to ensure smooth implementation,” JSC Secretary Mr Walter Chikwana noted.
The JSC says the programme aligns with the crucial targets of ensuring justice delivery for all citizens.
“The guiding principle is based on Vision 2030 and NDS1, to ensure access to justice for the general populace. We are ensuring decentralisation to ensure at least every district has a courthouse and every province has a High Court to ensure justice is as close as possible to our people. The days of missing documents in court files will soon be over, as electronic records will be maintained. IECMS will also enhance justice delivery even in the comfort of your home,” Mr Chikwana noted.
Under the Integrated Electronic Case Management System, e-filling offices will be set up in every courthouse in the country.
Citizens will also be able to follow up on cases from the comfort of their homes using different gadgets with internet connectivity.
There will also be provisions to assist those without access to connectivity by providing information centres.
