Justice sector moves to harmonise services

Public Relation Officers from public institutions operating in line with providing justice, on Thursday, met at the Ministry of Justice to devise means through which they can coordinate and share information to strengthen the efficiency of the judicial system.The institutions are under the platform, Justice Reconciliation Law and Order Sector (JRLOS). They include the Ombudsman’s Office, National Public Prosecution Authority (NPPA), Rwanda Correctional Services National Law Commission and Justice Ministry.“Each institution works independently, but there is need to have a systematic information sharing, as at times they depend on each other to effectively execute their respective responsibilities,” said Prof. Nick Johnson, Rector, Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD).He noted that the platform will enable institutions in the justice sector to bridge the gaps that exist in access to information, not only in building capacity to operate, but also in service delivery.Through the initiative, institutions are expected to coordinate with the Justice Sector Coordination Secretariat in providing information that will also be accessed by the public through the media.Participants told The New Times that JRLOS will play a significant role in strengthening and promoting the rule of law and accountable governance.“There are people out there who do not know their rights,” said Christian Mutembe, one of the participants.He explained that this gives a chance to educate the public about existing, changing and new laws as well as people’s protection against injustice. The move is also expected to guide the public in using or getting access to the legal services.“Some people are still losing a lot of money to get legal representation even with cases which can simply be settled by the mediators or “Abunzi,” said Mutembe said.