New courthouse in Mabaruma brings justice closer to remote communities

A new $277.9 million Mabaruma Magistrate’s Court was commissioned in Region One on Friday, marking another significant milestone in improving access to judicial services locally.

The facility is within walking distance of the township and will serve far-flung communities across the region, including White Water and Tobago Hill.

Acting President, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips was present for the commissioning ceremony.

He was joined by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC; Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards; and Chief Justice (ag), Roxane George.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed the PPP/C administration’s dedication to ensuring the constitutional rights of every Guyanese are realised in practice, not just on paper.

“Today, our government reaffirms our commitment to these principles by bringing judicial services closer to the people of Region One. No longer should anyone have to endure long, costly journeys to urban centres in search of justice,” he stated.

AG Nandlall, who also spoke, outlined the government’s strides in expanding access to legal services.

A Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority office was established in Mabaruma last year, ensuring that residents no longer need to travel to Georgetown or Essequibo to access services such as business registration and deed poll registration.

Similar offices have also been established in Bartica, Lethem, and Port Kaituma, with plans to have one in each of the ten administrative regions.

He also mentioned the construction of Magistrates’ Courts in other remote areas, including Mahdia, Bartica, Vigilance, and Port Kaituma.

“This is by design. Our government plans to ensure that every citizen of our country, wherever they are geographically located, must, as a matter of right, enjoy equally with their counterparts, wherever they may be, the same quality and quantity of services,” he said.

The Legal Affairs Minister said the new court is an indisputable illustration of the government’s commitment to the rule of law and represents its strong working relationship with the judiciary.

The event was also marked by the launch of the first-ever flag of the judiciary. It features horizontal red, creamy, and black bars, complemented by the image of Lady Justice. (DPI)

A scene at the commissioning