BENTIU – Unity State government inaugurated a mobile court and deployed two permanent judges in Bentiu on Monday, September 29, to try backlog of criminal cases.
The court launch was attended by thousands of people, the governor’s office said, adding it will significantly improve law and order, as it is the first permanent constitutional court there in 11 years since conflicts forced the closure of the state high court.
The state paramount chief Gatluak Chieh said the customary courts have been the main adjudicators of cases due to the absence of a proper justice mechanism.
“We solved cases that were not at our jurisdiction due to the absence of the proper rule of law and the competent court. I and the co-chiefs are happy for the opening of the mobile court,” he said.
The state police commissioner Maj. Gen. Gathon Jual stated that the police and other partners will work hand in hand to ensure that all cases are pursued to the court of law.
The UN family, partners, and other donors pledged to continue supporting the state government to strengthen local justice systems.
On his part, Governor Riek Bim Top promised administrative commitment to expand the rule of law up to rural villages. He reiterated the presence of the rule of law is the presence of peace such that essential services can be delivered freely.
The mobile court in Unity State will provide satisfying legal services to the local population by trying individuals convicted of serious crimes in the presence of judges.
