Rwamagana - The Minister of Justice, Tharicisse Karugarama, yesterday told court bailiffs to respect their ethics when enforcing court orders.

The Minister made the remarks while addressing 54 bailiffs attending a 5-day workshop in Rwamagana, organised by Institute of Legal Practice and Development.

Karugarama noted that bailiffs are expected to support the country’s justice system and not cripple it.

"How can you give away a house worth Rwf70 million for Rwf20 million? Deliberate undervaluation of assets for your egoistic ends is unacceptable,” he said.

"Some of you con clients and switch off phones to escape with their money. Such training is meant to give you the skills and knowledge to end irregularities.”

The Minister added that the government is revising some laws concerning court bailiffs to facilitate them in their routine work.

Ismael Uwimana, the Chairman of Rwanda Bailiffs Association, stressed the need for training to ensure professional execution of their duties.

"It is true that some of us have not lived to our expectations... individuals of course mess on their own. We hope the training will change their mindset,” he said.
Beatrice Niyibizi, a Kigali based bailiff, who has been serving in the judiciary for over 20 years, singled out asset evaluation by bailiffs as one of the major challenges.

"Bailiffs are told to value and sell fixed assets like a house, yet they are not knowledgeable enough to give the most appropriate valuation. A valuation expert should come in to ensure fairness,” she said.

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