BY INDY MAEALASIA

CHIEF Justice Albert Palmer says the local court is struggling with significant backlogs, primarily due to insufficient funding.

Speaking at the opening of the legal term earlier this week, Palmer stressed that the court remains the country’s underperforming institution, with 457 cases still pending nationwide.

“This sadly continues to be the under-performing court in the country with a huge backlog of 457 cases pending throughout the country,” Palmer said. “The rate of disposal is very low,” he added.

Palmer said that the backlog is not due to a lack of effort but rather a shortage of funds.

 “This is however not for want of trying but more due to constraints in adequate funds being made available. As provided in the report to me, only 2 circuits were able to be conducted with the limited funds provided and 25 cases disposed of.”

Despite the ongoing challenges, the Chief Justice remains hopeful that the situation will improve.

“We are hopeful however, for better things this year with an increased budget being provided and more circuits expected to be conducted,” he said.

Palmer also stressed the importance of adequate funding for the courts, emphasizing their critical role in the government.

 “The courts are a vital component as the third branch of government; therefore, it is imperative that they receive the necessary support to operate effectively,” he added.

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