The Ministry of Justice has underscored the pivotal role that Justices of the Peace (JPs) play as impartial witnesses in various legal proceedings. This focus includes their responsibilities in identity verification, document signing, and fraud prevention. Recently, an induction ceremony marked the appointment of 60 new JPs, with the event officiated by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Selina Kuruleca.
During the ceremony, Kuruleca elaborated on the extensive duties that accompany the position of a JP, such as witnessing statutory declarations and certifying document copies. She highlighted the importance of providing these services free of charge, ensuring they remain accessible to all community members.
The Permanent Secretary also urged the newly sworn-in JPs to perform their responsibilities with professionalism and dignity, reflecting ongoing initiatives within the judicial system to enhance accountability and the integrity of legal services.
Stepping into their vital role, the new JPs are expected to promote justice and instill public trust, echoing the sentiments of judicial leaders like Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo. Temo has previously stressed the necessity of ethical standards in the legal profession and encouraged newly admitted lawyers to embody integrity and professionalism. Likewise, the new JPs are encouraged to serve impartially, aligning with foundational values essential for a fair justice system.
The induction of these JPs brings promising prospects for a more accessible and trustworthy legal process, ensuring that justice is attainable for every community member. Their commitment is essential in promoting transparency and fairness—core components for a thriving democracy. This initiative represents a hopeful step towards strengthening the rule of law and enhancing the overall integrity of legal proceedings in society.
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