Chief Justice Launches E-Court Digital Platform in Malawi to Improve Access to Justice

Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda has launched the e-Court digital platform in Lilongwe, Malawi, which aims to link prisons, police stations, and courts to provide access to justice for vulnerable groups, including survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). The e-Court system, established with support from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), is expected to help resolve disputes conveniently, efficiently, and in a timely manner.

The e-Court platform facilitates virtual court proceedings, allowing stakeholders to conduct sessions remotely. This initiative aims to reduce costs, address the backlog of cases, and restore public confidence in the justice system, particularly for women and children. "The launch of the e-Court aims to bring justice closer to people by eliminating the need for long-distance travel to access the courts," stated Chief Justice Mzikamanda during the launch event.

Why this matters: The e-Court digital platform constitutes a meaningful step towards improving access to justice for vulnerable groups in Malawi, especially those in rural areas who often face challenges in reaching courts due to long distances. By leveraging technology, the initiative has the potential to streamline court proceedings, reduce delays, and ensure that justice is served more efficiently.

The e-Court platform is initially being piloted in 20 police stations, prisons, and courts, with plans to expand upon successful implementation through collaborative efforts between the Malawi Judiciary Service, UNDP, and private sector partners like Airtel Malawi, which serves as the network service provider. UNDP Resident Representative Fenella Frost emphasized that the system will help the government save money and allow people in rural areas to access justice more easily.

Commissioner General of the Malawi Prison Service, Masauko Ng'ombeyagwada Wiskot, highlighted that the e-Court system is expected to address the issue of missing files in the court system and help reduce prison overcrowding by allowing prisoners to access justice while in prison, reducing the need for transportation to courts. "The system will help reduce prison overcrowding by allowing prisoners to access justice while in prison, reducing the need for transportation," Wiskot stated.

Key Takeaways

• Malawi launches e-Court digital platform to improve access to justice.
• e-Court links prisons, police, and courts to serve vulnerable groups.
• Aims to reduce costs, address case backlog, and restore public trust.
• e-Court initially piloted in 20 locations, with plans to expand nationwide.
• Helps address missing files, prison overcrowding, and transportation issues.