Lawyers Boycott Opening of the Legal Year 2024
- Opening of the Legal Year 2024 – Botswana
The legal year 2024 in Botswana was opened on the 6th February 2024.
2. Legal Year 2024 Official opening ceremony
In an unprecedented turn of events, for the first time in history in Botswana (to our knowledge), there were two ceremonies being held, both signifying the opening of the legal year 2024. Two events happening at the same time, at different locations and with a different audience.
The official opening of the legal year 2024 was held at the High Court of Botswana as practice every year. The ceremony was graced with dignitaries and plenty of Attorneys.
3. Law Society of Botswana Boycott
The other event was held separately by the Law Society of Botswana at their office building in Village, Gaborone. The event was also graced by some dignitaries and Attorneys.
4. What led to the Law Society Boycott?
On the 24th of January 2024 the Law Society of Botswana tabled a motion to it’s members to boycott the Opening of the Legal year scheduled for the 6th February 2024. The reason being that they allege that the current state of the judiciary is not positioned well to serve the public and uphold the rule of law. Some of their concerns among others included:
- Delays in paying out pro deo fees;
- Delays in issuing judgements particularly default Judgements and Writs of execution;
- Shortage of stationery such as lack of printing paper etc.
5. Chief Justice Legal Year 2024 Keynote Address
Chief Justice Rannowane in his keynote address acknowledged the challenges they have been facing as the judiciary. He also talked to the on going key reforms which will enhance the service delivery of the judiciary. Examples include on-going reforms such as:
- Introduction of e-filings which will be connected with all courts across Botswana;
- establishments of commercial courts to assist in expedite cases;
- virtual courts, etc.
The question which remains now is:
Which Opening of the Legal Year Ceremony did you attend or watch? For those who attended either of the two ceremonies, please share your experiences and opinions below.
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