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Kiswahili should be applied
2007-07-22 12:20:23
By Lucas Lukumbo
Chief Justice Augustino Ramadhani will introduce the national language, Kiswahili, in all case proceedings in the judiciary system as one of his immediate goals during his tenure as new head of one of the three pillars of the state.
It is a common legal jargon that justice must be done and be seen to be done. But I add that justice must also be heard,` the newly appointed Chief Justice said in an exclusive interview on Friday in his office immediately after he was sworn in by President Jakaya Kikwete.
Justice Ramadhani observed that many of the case proceedings, especially in the higher courts, are conducted in English at the disadvantage of many clients not quite conversant with the language, noting: ``I will have to seat with my colleagues and see what we can do about this.``
Chief Justice Ramadhani, who does not support the death penalty, added, however, that he has no specific timetable for the change to Kiswahili but stressed it was his resolve to do so.
His other strategies while at the throne include stamping out corruption, speedy delivery of justice and making justice affordable by all categories of people.
The new Chief Justice does not deny the presence of corruption in the judicial system but says the notions on more corruption within the judiciary are orchestrated.``Yes we have corruption in the judiciary, but we also have perceived corruption.
At times people think that when we adjourn cases, it is a deliberate move to solicit bribes,`` he said.
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