The impact of the covid-19 pandemic on the delivery of the justice system: the case of the high court of Zimbabwe
- Author
- Gondwe, Gamuchirai
- Title
- The impact of the covid-19 pandemic on the delivery of the justice system: the case of the high court of Zimbabwe
- Abstract
- The purpose of this study is to investigate the multifaceted effects of the pandemic on the delivery of justice and provide insights into the consequences to the High Court of Zimbabwe. The research employs qualitative interviews with judges, clerks and lawyers. The findings reveal that the COVID-19 pandemic had detrimental effects on the delivery of justice such as delays in hearings, trial and the issuance of court orders and judgements, emotional breakdowns amongst court workers, difficulties in securing witness testimonies and financial strains on the judicial system due to reduced government budgets. The conclusions drawn from the analysis emphasize that there should be of call to action for policymakers, legal practitioners, and civil society actors to collectively address the enduring impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the justice system. The recommendations put forth include implementing measures to reduce overcrowding within correctional facilities such as reviewing non-violent offenders for early release or alternative sentencing options to reduce the spread of viruses or diseases, providing training and technical support to judges, lawyers and court staff to ensure the effective use of digital tools and participating in webinars, conferences or online forums to exchange insights and experiences with fellow legal professionals.
- Date
- June,2024
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Covid 19, high court, Zimbabwe
- Supervisor
- NIL
- Item sets
- Department of Peace and Governance
