Judge orders reporters, registrar to talk
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
The 16 court reporters employed by the Administration of Justice have instituted legal proceedings against the government over unfair progression within their department.
The court reporters, who work in various magistrates' courts in Botswana, had given the Registrar and Master of the High Court an ultimatum: consider us for progression or face legal action.
Upon hearing attorney Morgan Moseki of MCM Moseki Attorneys, representing Lilian Nche and 15 others, and state counsel Tshedukani Elijah for the respondent, Justice Modiri Letsididi also ordered the applicants' attorney and the respondent to convene a meeting for the purpose of negotiations within two weeks of the date of the order, August 3.
"Failing which the applicants shall be at liberty to set the matter down for hearing. The respondent shall pay to the applicants today's wasted costs in the sum of P880 inclusive of VAT," Justice Letsididi ruled.
These legal professionals, who are entrusted with upholding the rule of law, face numerous challenges that compromise their ability to effectively carry out their duties.Elsewhere in this edition, we carry a story on the lamentations of the officers of court.The prosecutors have raised a number of concerns, calling for urgent attention from all relevant stakeholders, including the President, Minister of Justice and the Attorney General. Their...