In a recent statement, Justice Sakoane Sakoane, Chief Justice of Lesotho, has reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the operations of the country’s justice system. With a vision to modernize and streamline judicial processes, Justice Sakoane highlighted key initiatives he plans to implement in the near future, including the introduction of the much-needed Criminal Procedure and Evidence Rules.
Justice Sakoane noted that the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act, enacted in 1981, has been operating without specific implementing rules for decades. He pointed out that this gap in the law has hindered the effective functioning of the justice system, particularly in criminal cases. In response, the Chief Justice pledged to issue the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Rules soon, ensuring that the Act’s provisions are better enforced and that the justice system operates more efficiently.
During his address, Justice Sakoane also stressed the critical role that witnesses play in the judicial process. He emphasized that a justice system collapses when witnesses fail to appear in court to provide testimony. According to the Chief Justice, witnesses are at the epicentre of the system, and their absence severely impacts the pursuit of justice. He reaffirmed the importance of ensuring that witnesses are properly supported and encouraged to come forward, as their testimonies are integral to fair and timely legal proceedings.
Justice Sakoane’s focus on improving the justice system and introducing new rules comes as part of a broader effort to strengthen the rule of law in Lesotho. By ensuring that procedural rules are in place, the Chief Justice hopes to create a more transparent, accountable, and efficient system that serves all citizens fairly.
In conclusion, with the introduction of the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Rules and a renewed emphasis on witness participation, Justice Sakoane aims to make significant strides in the continued development of Lesotho’s justice system. His pledge to enhance the system’s operations reflects his dedication to ensuring that justice is both swift and fair for all.
