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Daniel Nemukuyu Senior Court Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S fourth permanent High Court will open its doors to the public in Mutare next month following the completion of renovations at the magnificent double-storey court house.

The modern glass-and-mortar structure boasts four fully-furnished courtrooms, two judges’ chambers and offices for court officials and external stakeholders.

Judicial Service Commission (JSC) Deputy Secretary Mr Sithembinkosi Msipa confirmed the development saying the court will open in the first week of May before the superior courts open for the second term.

The superior courts are currently on vacation after closure of the first term early this month.

“All is now set for the opening of the Mutare High Court. Renovations at the High Court building are complete and the court will officially open in May this year, before the beginning of the second term,” said Mr Msipa.

All departments, except judges, started work at the Mutare High Court yesterday (Monday). Mr Msipa said the court will open with two resident judges, who are yet to be announced.

“The Judge President will submit names of the judges to the Chief Justice for approval. Once approved by the Chief Justice, the judges will be deployed to Mutare,” said Mr Msipa.

Last month, Chief Justice Luke Malaba toured the building and described it as wonderful.

The Judiciary boss expressed satisfaction with the work, describing the structure as a magnificent and world class courthouse.

“The building is of high standards, both in terms of the structure and facilities that it provides.

The courtrooms are of international standards and you cannot expect any better. Furniture is of high quality and you cannot expect any better.

“The structure answers to the wellness of the users.

“It is user-friendly and it just goes on to show that a lot of attention was put into the structure,” said the Chief Justice.

Mutare High Court will be the fourth permanent High Court station in the country.

The High Court in Harare was the first to be established, followed by the Bulawayo High Court. The High Court in Masvingo was third.