RUBAVU - The Legal Aid Forum and Rubavu District authorities are calling upon bailiffs to enforce court decisions in order to deliver justice and avoid a backlog of pending cases.

Frank Mugisha, programme manager of the Legal Aid Forum, made the call at a meeting, in Rubavu, that attracted professional and non professional bailiffs, as well as judges.

The meeting was convened to forge a solution to the challenges faced by the bailiffs.

The Forum advocates and provides free legal services to the poor.

"Justice does not stop at court judgments but at the enforcement of the decisions taken by the judges, and as fast as possible,” Mugisha said.

However, it was also noted that most of the bailiffs lack adequate legal knowledge and skills hence the delayed justice.

Mugisha says the delayed enforcement of court orders is not unique to Rubavu but spreads throughout the country and the Ministry of Justice is aware of this.

"This problem hinders the rule of law that’s why we’re undertaking a study to find out how we can equip the bailiffs with legal and practical knowledge to find a lasting solution,” Mugisha added.

Hanriette Mukabikino, in charge of good governance in Rubavu, acknowledges the many pending cases in courts and called for quick action.

"We have many court judgments arising from land disputes which are not enforced and they continue to cause friction between the parties,” explained Mukabikino.

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