Online Reporter
Paul Pindani in CHINHOYI
BANKET Circuit Court has been officially designated as a resident court for Mashonaland West, a significant development that will enhance the administration of justice in the region.
This was revealed by Deputy Judge President, Justice Garainesu Mawadze, during the official opening of the Legal Year 2025 at Chinhoyi High Court.
This year’s theme is “Building Public Confidence in the Judiciary through Stakeholder Participation”
Justice Mawadze said prior to this change, Banket functioned as a circuit court which, by its nature, operated on an occasional basis, meaning that court sessions were not held every day.
“However, with this transition to a resident court, matters will now be dealt with on a regular basis, ensuring a more consistent and timely resolution of cases,” said Justice Mawadze.
“This change will have numerous advantages, including reduced delays in case hearings and improved access to justice for the communities served by the court.
“This move signifies a step towards greater convenience for litigants, legal practitioners and all those seeking justice and ensuring that the wheels of justice turn with greater speed and reliability.”
He said the official opening of the legal year serves as an occasion to reinforce the judiciary’s responsibility to be accountable to the public, from whom it derives its authority.
“This event provides the judiciary with an opportunity to report to the people of Zimbabwe on the administration and performance of the courts over the past year,” said Justice Mawadze.
Justice Mawadze said this was also a time to reflect on its performance, to assess the achievements of the past year and to evaluate the strategies and plans for the year ahead.
The event was attended by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo, service chiefs and the Mayor of Chinhoyi Owen Charuza.
