The judiciary on Wednesday 27th January 2010, held a daylong seminar on the introduction of children courts rule, at the Kairaba Beach Hotel.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Justice of the Gambia, Emmanuel Agim, said that lawyers are expected to fully participate in the administration of justice and urge them to comply with the rules.
He stated that to be a lawyer is not only running between the court houses for solving matters but to make sure that the law is put at the top line which shall enhance fair justice delivery system in due execution of their duties.
He further stated that rules of law should be understood and not seen as obstacles of justice. He advised the lawyers to come with the rules that will be understood, particularly in the Children Act, as well as Industrial Tribunal Rules.
He thanked the Gambia Bar Association for their contribution towards the development of the association, while calling for unity and understanding among them in their endeavours to realise their aspirations.
Justice Mama Fatima Singhateh said that the preparation of these rules was made possible with the support of the UNDP, which she added, aims to ensure an efficient dispensation of justice in The Gambia.
She stated that there were a number of activities planned for the project, some of which have been implemented. These, she added, include the support of Saturday court sittings, the development of judiciary website, training of Magistrates on ICT, the procurement of computers and accessories for Magistrates and judicial staff, amendment of High Court rules. She further stated that a lot more activities are planned for the year 2010, all geared towards enhancing the administration of justice in The Gambia.
