Benefit of justice system contingent on resources: Chief Judge

The public can only experience the benefits of the justice system when human and infrastructural resources are shared with all estates of the government equally, said High Court Chief Judge Hussain Shaheed.

Speaking at an event at CHSE School to celebrate the 44th anniversary of the High Court, Judge Shaheed said that they sometimes have to face challenges due to law amendments. He added that although some laws mandate time frames within which courts must settle matters, the courts are not equipped with the resources needed to meet those deadlines.

"I often wish our opinions are sought and the situation of courts are factored in when such laws are formulated," he expressed the court's frustrations.

The Judge also said that the High Court should be an independent body in terms of administrative management and budget, to be able to fulfil the legal responsibilities assigned to it by the Constitution and laws. He further added that despite the limited budget available, they should be able to fulfil essential requirements without having to knock on the doors of another office.

The High Court is the first appeal court for the rulings of 187 magistrate courts, five superior courts and tribunals. In some instances, it is also the first level court in some cases.

"To finish all these cases, at the moment we have the former presidential house, which was allocated as a temporary arrangement 15 years ago. Not at all a court building," Judge Shaheed explained.

He explained that judges only have two court rooms there and judges have only 12 changes to schedule cases within a month.

Factoring in hearings which get cancelled due to various reasons, only about seven hearings actually take place, he said. The Judge also pointed out that a 2018 report declared the building unsafe to work out of.

"There are a few judges and staff at the High Court compared to the cases submitted to the Court. I also note that there is a severe shortage of material resources and budget needed for work [at the court]," Judge Shaheed added.

During the ceremony which took place last night, judges who previously served at the High Court were presented with awards for their services. Among those who received the award were former Chief Justice Sheikh Mohamed Rasheed Ibrahim and former Chief Justice Ahmed Faiz Hussain, along with 27 others.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's father Sheikh Hussain Abdul Rahman was also presented with a Judge's gown in appreciation of his service as a judge at the Court.