Dekemhare, 27 July 2010 - Institution of justice in Dekemhare sub-zone are rendering speedy and efficient administration of justice, according to reports.

The reports indicated that institutions of justice in general and courts in particular are playing major role in settling disputes through reconciliation, thus saving time, money and energy.

The introduction of community magistrates in the sub-zone is also making due contribution in relieving the work load encountered by other institutions of justice.

The head of courts supervision department in the Southern region, Mr. Tewolde Abraha, told ERINA that there exist 120 community magistrates in the region with a view to settling disputes through reconciliation. He further explained that out of the total 4,700 civil and criminal cases presented to the courts, 75% has been settled through reconciliation, while verdict was given to more than 900 cases. The remaining ones are also in the process of being settled, Mr. Tewolde added.

Mr. Amanuel Girmai, judge at the Dekemhare Court, said on his part that undertaking continued campaign and lectures is imperative to raise public awareness regarding legal matters. He also called on village elders and religious leaders to work diligently in encouraging the society to settle disputes through reconciliation on the basis of the nation’s noble tradition and custom.