Justice building annex opens to ease courtroom constraints

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu inaugurated the new Justice Building Annex designated for the Criminal Court and Drug Court, at a special ceremony held this afternoon. The event was attended by Cabinet Ministers, members of the judiciary, and court staff.

Described as the largest judicial building in recent history, the annex marks a significant step forward for the judiciary, according to Chief Judicial Administrator Amjad Mustafa, who noted the government had prioritized the project to address long-standing structural and operational challenges.

“The new Justice Building Annex has resolved many issues that had been pending for years,” Amjad said, expressing hope that the facility would accelerate case hearings and improve access to justice.

Despite the relocation of the Criminal Court and Drug Court to the new building, Amjad acknowledged that challenges persist, and said a long-term solution will come with the completion of the planned court complex in Hulhumalé.

According to the Department of Judicial Administration (DJA), the new building—developed by Housing Development Corporation (HDC)—includes:

10 trial rooms for the Criminal Court

5 courtrooms for the Drug Court

17 judges’ chambers — (12 for the Criminal Court and 5 for the Drug Court)

Previously, the Criminal Court had been operating out of temporary facilities following the collapse of the former STO building. These space constraints had occasionally disrupted court operations.

The DJA said the additional courtrooms and improved infrastructure are expected to alleviate delays and ease overcrowding, creating a more functional and dignified environment for court proceedings.

President Muizzu also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary, announcing that construction of a Judicial Superior Complex in Hulhumalé would begin later this year, further addressing space constraints and supporting judicial reform.