Pemba, Zanzibar – The significance of the judiciary extends beyond the grandeur of its buildings, focusing instead on the core values of justice and integrity, emphasized Othman Masoud Othman, Zanzibar’s first Vice President. His remarks were made during the groundbreaking ceremony for the new North Pemba Regional Court in Kinyasini, Wete District, on December 27, 2024.
Mr. Othman stressed that true respect for the judiciary comes from its ability to serve the community as a source of justice and resolution. He described a court that fails to uphold these principles as “a blunt sword without wisdom," highlighting the repercussions of inadequate justice.
He called on all engaged in the judiciary to maintain integrity, compassion, and fairness, particularly for the vulnerable who may lack representation. The Vice President noted that the Zanzibar Government has implemented a strategy aimed at constructing modern court facilities to enhance service delivery and improve working conditions for judicial staff.
"These buildings will hold little value if citizens are reluctant to seek justice within them," he warned, addressing ongoing infrastructure issues such as overcrowding and insufficient facilities for individuals with special needs. The initiative includes the construction of seven new court buildings across the islands, with the North Pemba Regional Court being part of this comprehensive project for the 2023/2024 financial year.
In addition, he mentioned the upcoming Micheweni District Court in Konde and the Mkoani District Court as part of these essential infrastructural developments. Mr. Othman reiterated that courts must function not only as venues for justice but also as "schools of law," denouncing unlawful practices affecting innocent citizens.
The new court facilities are expected to accommodate a range of stakeholders, including government and private attorneys, police, social welfare services, and legal aid providers.
Chief Justice Khamis Ramadhan Abdalla recognized the government’s commitment to enhancing the judiciary’s infrastructure and performance. He highlighted ongoing projects and a significant World Bank proposal aimed at furthering judicial improvements in the next five years.
Shamata Shaame Khamis, Acting Minister for the Office of the President for the Constitution, Law, Public Service, and Good Governance, affirmed the government’s continuous oversight of budgetary allocations to tackle challenges within the judiciary sector. He called on citizens to collaborate in fostering development and ensuring the effective execution of laws.
The ceremony celebrated the 61st anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution, themed "Peace, Unity, and Solidarity for Our Development," featuring prayers, poetry, and performances from local artists. Numerous dignitaries, including government officials, political leaders, and community representatives, attended the event, led by Chief Qadi Sheikh Hassan Othman Ngwali and North Pemba Regional Commissioner Salama Mbarouk Khatib.
