United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in collaboration with European Union (EU) handed over computers, printers and shredders to the Judiciary at the ceremony held at the Lesotho High Court on Monday.
This donation serves the purpose of the Support to Implementation of the Justice Sector Reforms Project.
Speaking at the event, UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Betty Wabunoha said she is delighted to be part of the handing over of this symbolic equipment that demonstrates commitment and purpose in supporting the Kingdom of Lesotho.
She noted that in the declaration of the High-Level Meeting on Rule of Law of 24 September 2012, member states of the United Nations noted that the rule of law and development are strongly interrelated and mutually reinforcing that the advancement of rule of law international and national levels is essential for sustained and inclusive economic growth, sustainable development, eradication of poverty and hunger.
She further noted that at the national level, the rule of law is necessary to create an environment for providing sustainable livelihoods and eradicating poverty, saying poverty often stems from disempowerment, exclusion, and discrimination.
She mentioned that in order for the rule of law to further sustain development outcomes, it must ensure protection of all human rights, including economic, social, and cultural rights
and the right to development, adding that while rule by law may provide a legal framework,
contractual certainty and dispute resolution mechanisms, it is only the rule of law consistent with international human rights which can provide for development that is also inclusive and sustainable.
She expressed gratitude to the generous support and partnership of the EU in this endeavour,  saying they appreciate that there is a critical need to address the outstanding caseload, any steps to accelerate the justice process in respect to have a positive impact on the urgently needed national reforms, saying this is a symbolic gesture as they look forward to working with the justice sector towards strengthening access to justice.
When receiving the donations, Chief Justice Sakoane Sakoane expressed gratitude to the donors, saying they are the dependable partners of Lesotho for always offering a helping hand wherever assistance is needed.
He mentioned that the manner in which this equipment comes is part of the efforts to deepen the rule of law, observance of human rights and expedite the hearing of high-profile cases.
In conclusion, he promised that the donation will serve its given purpose, saying since the project has a given time frame to finish these cases and will be finished within the given time frame.
 
By Staff Reporter: ‘Maphoka Likotsi