NEGLECTED PUJEHUN MAGISTRATE NEEDS URGENT REHABILITATION

Hassan Juana Koroma

The Pujehun Magistrate Court is facing significant challenges as ongoing judicial reforms, spearheaded by His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, encounter setbacks in terms of necessary infrastructure improvements. Despite extensive refurbishment and renovation efforts throughout the judiciary, the Pujehun judicial district has been overlooked, leading to frustration among local stakeholders. Stakeholders in Pujehun have expressed their support for the Chief Justice's initiatives, particularly in the realm of human development within the judiciary. However, they emphasize the urgent need for a conducive working environment. The current state of the magistrate court building is alarming, with issues such as leaks that make it feel like being under the rain, damaged glass windows, and an overall dilapidated condition of the magistrate chamber.

"Decades of neglect have left the Pujehun Magistrate Court in dire straits," said a local community leader. "We are appealing to the Chief Justice to prioritize the rebuilding of this court. It is crucial for ensuring justice is administered effectively in our district." The magistrates in Pujehun are also facing practical challenges, including a lack of mobility, unreliable electricity supply, and insufficient water facilities. These shortcomings hinder their ability to perform their duties effectively, contrasting sharply with the conditions enjoyed by their counterparts in urban areas. As the judicial reform agenda unfolds, stakeholders are hopeful that the Chief Justice will take notice of the pressing needs of the Pujehun Magistrate Court. They urge for immediate action to restore the court to a functioning state that meets the basic requirements for delivering justice. The call for attention to the Pujehun Magistrate Court reflects a broader concern for equity in the judicial system, ensuring that all regions, regardless of their location, receive the necessary support to uphold the rule of law.