Maravi

Judge Mulongoti calls for more prisons

Judge Mulongoti calls for more prisons
By Speedwell Mupuchi in Kitwe
Tue 04 Jan. 2011, 04:00 CAT

KITWE High Court judge Judy Mulongoti says government should give the problem of overcrowding in the country’s prison utmost urgency. Copperbelt prisons have a total of 3,417 prisoners.

Opening the High Court criminal sessions in Kitwe yesterday, Justice Mulongoti said that limited space due to limited number of prisons, increased prison admission, over detention (pre-trial detention), and slowness in the criminal justice process were some of the causes of the problem.

She said that government in its Fifth National Development Plan had policies to address the problem.

“I can only solemnly urge the government through you and through this forum lobby that the problem of overcrowding in our prisons be afforded the utmost urgency it deserves,” she said.

“And courts must judiciously consider alternative sentencing options. The parole system must therefore be given the necessary support and its enabling legislation must be strengthened to make it more effective.”

Justice Mulongoti said the Law Association of Zambia should encourage its members to take up cases and give legal representation on pro bono basis for the good of the public, particularly the vulnerable.

Justice Mulongoti noted that administration of justice and the fight against crime could not just be left to the police, prisons and the courts.

She said the judiciary had multiple challenges ranging from inadequate funds and infrastructure to inadequate machinery, equipment and cutting-edge technology in many courthouses, particularly the lower courts, to help in the quick disposal of cases.

Copperbelt minister Mwansa Mbulakulima who officiated at the occasion urged legal practitioners to avoid unnecessary adjournment of cases.

Labels: PRISONS

posted by MrK @ 9:01 AM