AAG fumes over High Court official

THE Affirmative Action Group (AAG) has written a letter of complaint against the Registrar of the High Court of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, claiming that the official, in his capacity as a custodian of the law hinders the course of justice.

In the letter written by AAG chief executive officer, Mr Denzel Sita and addressed to the Secretary of Judicial Services Commission Mr Walter Chikwana, of which Sunday News has a copy, the AAG accused Mr Gibson Mandaza of awarding special treatment to friends, alleging that on some instances he refuses to see clients needing assistance.

"The gross contempt displayed by the Registrar towards the plight of self actors seeking justice is appalling and inconsistent with the JSC's mandate to ensure access to justice. On several occasions this Registrar has refused clients access to files, even going as far as refusing to see clients citing that he has more important duties with the Chief Justice. Which begs the question, is it not the mandate of these office bearers to assist litigants and take note of their concerns? Are these courts not for these litigants who wish to access the services of the courts?

 "One is left in a state of angst as this Registrar also shows a degree of tribal favouritism . . . Should the commission fail to address this issue it shall result, as it partially has, result in the collapse of the judicial system and we cannot stand by and let members be harassed by people who are to serve them," he said.

Contacted for comment, Mr Mandaza said he had not seen the letter and in fact, he was not allowed to talk to the Press. Secretary of Judicial Services Commission Mr Walter Chikwana confirmed having received the letter.

"I received the letter and we have launched an inquiry into the matter raised by the AAG. After our findings we will give them feedback on our findings of the inquiry," said Mr Chikwana.