Story by Fungai Jachi, Courts Reporter
Acting President General Retired Dr Constantino Chiwenga has implored Zimbabweans to uphold the dictates of the Constitution to ensure effective administration of justice.
He was addressing stakeholders in the justice system at the 10th anniversary of the Constitution held in Harare Monday night.
The official opening of the 2024 legal year this Monday saw the judiciary and stakeholders in the justice system being challenged to uphold the Constitution in the administration of justice.
Speaking at a dinner hosted by Chief Justice Luke Malaba in Harare Monday night, Acting President Chiwenga noted the need for a collaborative effort in ensuring the dictates of Constitution are adhered to for the effective administration of justice.
“Although the theme is specific in its focus on the role of the judiciary, what is inherent in it is the acceptance that there are other entities with important roles to play in the entrenchment of constitutionalism. The function of these entities is to guarantee alongside the judiciary compliance with the demands of the Constitution. The judiciary, though designated by constitutional design as the final port of call in the determination of the rights of people, cannot effectively discharge its mandate as an isolated arm of the State,” he said.
Acting President Chiwenga highlighted that government recognises the autonomy of the judiciary.
“I also note that the Chief Justice in his State of the Judiciary address alluded to the separation of powers as part of the principles governing constitutionalism. It is prudent that i reiterate his sentiments in that regard. Government is committed to aiding the judiciary by recognising its autonomy when it comes to the exercise of judicial authority,” he said.
For Chief Justice Luke Malaba, a celebration of the Constitution is a celebration of good governance.
“Good governance is recognised by our obedience to constitutional values and norms. In turn, obedience to the Constitution is shown by the manner in which we perform constitutional duties and mindfulness with which we perform them. This must be reflected in the manner in which we fulfil our constitutional duties,” said the Chief Justice.
Meanwhile, long serving members of the Judicial Service Commission were honoured for their dedication to duty.
