President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has revealed plans to amend the law to address delays and make civil proceedings faster.
Speaking at a press conference held Monday, the President said amendments to the Judicature Act will be proposed when the Parliament reopens for its third session. He also said amendments will be proposed to the Civil Procedure Code to address challenges in conducting civil proceedings, and making them faster and easier.
The President further said the government will introduce a small claims court to quickly handle minor civil disputes, noting that the establishment of such a court is already included in the manifesto. He also said a commercial division in the Civil Court or a separate commercial court is planned to speed up business-related cases.
Noting that the government’s aim to transform the state system into a cost-effective system, the President further said that the government is also working towards strengthening the judiciary and ensuring that it operates free from political influence. A major step is separating the judiciary’s budget and providing it with greater financial independence, he noted.
Speaking on judicial infrastructure, the President said a contract has been signed to build the Superior Court Complex, while new buildings have also been provided for the Drug Court and Criminal Court. The government also plans a block grant for the judiciary based on a percentage of state revenue. The reforms are intended to make the justice system faster, more accessible, cost-effective and independent.