Thyolo courts struggle with poor facilities

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Charles Mhango has called for increased investment in the justice sector to improve access to legal services in hard-to-reach areas.

The minister made the call on Thursday during his tour of justice institutions in Thyolo District to appreciate challenges facing the courts and identify areas requiring urgent intervention.

He said the visit gave him an opportunity to understand the challenges affecting the delivery of justice at district level.

Mhango (R) in an outdated magistrate court in Thyolo. | Ted Likombola

At one of the courts, Mhango saw poor working conditions, including inadequate furniture and lack of air conditioning.

He also noted that court marshals lacked uniforms, while the district had a shortage of trained staff to support the operations of the courts.

Mhango further observed that some court buildings were outdated and lacked suitable toilets for both staff and members of the public.

“We need to engage the Judiciary and the Ministry of Finance to address these challenges and improve access to justice,” he said.

Thyolo district commissioner Noel Dakamau said the council will consult community leaders, councillors, members of Parliament and community development committees to include court projects in Constituency Development Fund.

He said courts serve people from all constituencies, making their development a responsibility for the whole district.

The district has five courts, but only three are operational, according to the council authorities.

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