Sekai Manyere and Muchaneta Chimuka
THE Judicial Service Commission has conducted stakeholder consultative meetings and awareness campaigns on the Integrated Electronic Case Management System initiative in Harare South, Beatrice Court and Chitungwiza Magistrates Court.
Eight provinces have so far been covered as the commission digitalises all courts nationwide to ensure the delivery of justice is more cost-effective, efficient and accessible.
JSC Secretary Walter Chikwanha, who chaired the interactive sessions, announced that the IECMS will launch on December 31 this year, with the system becoming fully operational from January 1.
“Our website is free, no need for payment; just press www.zimiecms.org.zw to get registered,” he said.
Mr Chikwanha outlined the system’s benefits for the Judiciary, noting that it will ease the travel burden for litigants, reduce paperwork, curb corrupt activities, improve efficiency and lower operational costs.
“Never again after December 31 will you travel all the way from your homesteads or deliver physical documents to the clerk of court. You can make payment in the comfort of your home and office,” he said.
He urged stakeholders and JSC staff to use the system and embrace new internet technologies, assuring attendees of their digital safety and security.
The meetings were attended by representatives from Government ministries, traditional leaders and local community members.
Speaking after the session, Headman Aaron Maumbe of Matiti Village in Seke praised the initiative for its potential to curb corruption by eliminating face-to-face interaction.
“There were relationships between litigants and JSC staff that were causing corruption around the courts,” he said.
Headman Onias Muswaka of Ward 4 East, Seke, added that the IECMS would significantly alleviate transport expenses, noting that many litigants had previously complained about the high cost of travelling to the courts.
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