Attorney General Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda joined over 400 dignitaries at the Commonwealth Law Ministers meeting in Zanzibar. The gathering commenced with a fervent call for decisive measures to make access to justice a reality for the 2.5 billion citizens of the Commonwealth.
Addressing the assembly, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland KC stressed the responsibility to drive a paradigm shift, urging the delegates to ensure that commitments go beyond words on paper, becoming a tangible experience for every Commonwealth citizen.
Against the backdrop of escalating global crises, Scotland called for an increased focus on justice as an “essential strength” to overcome current challenges.
President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, inaugurated the meeting, where she highlighted the crucial role of law in addressing unprecedented global challenges.
“Together, we can build a better future where justice prevails, and the rights of every individual are protected to sustain sustainable development across Commonwealth nations,” she said.
The meeting is being held under the theme, ‘How digitalization paves the way for the development of people-centred access to justice” and the host (Tanzania) outlined the country’s use of technology to enhance legal services, including the rollout of time-saving e-courts, which have also been providing aid on issues like gender-based violence and dispute resolution.
According to a statement released by the Commonwealth, the biennial meeting, a principal decision-making body for law ministers from 56 Commonwealth countries, will address access to justice challenges, especially for women, people with disabilities, and those in poverty.
Over the next four days, deligates will exchange practices on evidence-based policymaking and the use of digital resources to bridge gaps in justice services.
