CJ calls for more resources as crime surges

Chief Justice Sakoane Sakoane has expressed concern over the alarming rise in crimes such as gun violence, rape and stock theft.

Justice Sakoane said this today during the opening of the High Court in Maseru, where he presided over traditional proceedings marking the start of the legal year.

He called on the government to take immediate action to safeguard the safety and security of all citizens, by providing adequate resources to the justice system.

Justice Sakoane revealed that with the staggering increase in violent crimes, the sector was reaching breaking point, as the courts were struggling to handle the load of cases and deliver swift justice to victims.

Without urgent intervention, he noted, the judiciary’s ability to uphold the rule of law and protect the citizens was under threat.

“Making more laws without corresponding availability of resources is not the solution. When new laws are enacted, there should be a legislative audit on their impact on the existing judicial infrastructure and manpower,” Justice Sakoane advised.