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Mr Guvamombe

Fungai Lupande Court Reporter
Chief magistrate Mr Mishrod Guvamombe yesterday encouraged magistrates to familiarise themselves with the provisions of the new Constitution in order to discharge their duties effectively.
Mr Guvamombe made the remarks while swearing-in three new magistrates – Batanai Madzingira, Poterai Gwezhira and Trevor Nyatsanza -at the Harare Magistrates’ Court.

Mr Guvamombe told magistrates never to turn a blind ear to the decisions and pronouncements of the Constitutional Court on any matter.
“As we all celebrate the advent of a new constitutional dispensation in Zimbabwe, we have to bear in mind that the implementation of the new constitutional provisions comes with many challenges for judicial officers who do not take time to familiarise themselves with the relevant provisions of the supreme law.

“You must make decisions not ultra vires the Constitution. You must be alive to the clauses which protect the rights of arrested and detained litigants. There has been a paradigm shift on the laws which govern that area,” he said.

Mr Guvamombe took a swipe at individuals who tempt judicial officers with bribes.
“A corrupt society corrupts public institutions. Desist from tempting judicial officers with bribes. Our determination to deal with issues of corruption will never recede,” he said.

However, the three were advised to abstain from any unethical or socially reprehensive behaviour.
“You are bound by the law and your duty is simply to uphold the law and dispense justice. Never use your power in arbitrary fashion. You will earn the respect of all court users by showing respect to them,” he said.

Speaking at the same occasion, Chief Law Officer Mr Tawanda Zvekare said the National Prosecuting Authority heartily welcomed the trio to the family of magistrates.

“As you join the magisterial bench, we expect you to be morally upright and corruption free so that the people of Zimbabwe will be confident with the justice delivery system.

“We commend the Government for the restoration of magistrates’ allowances, may the same be done to prosecutors to improve morale,” he said.
Law Society of Zimbabwe president Mr Lloyd Mhishi said for Zim-Asset to be successful, there was need for a well- oiled judiciary system.

“Corruption has reached an alarming level; we all have a duty to fight against corruption. Please report errant legal practitioners to the law society,” he said.