President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that the public's trust in the judiciary has increased, but delays in concluding court cases are still an issue. He made the remarks at the opening of the Judicial Year 2023, held to review the judiciary's achievements in the previous year and set goals for the new year.
Speaking at the function, President Solih said increasing public trust in the judiciary is a major part of the administration's strategic action plan and noted that citizens are now more approving of judges and courthouses. He said that the public trust was built up because of fair rulings, but highlighted the importance of issuing rulings in a timely manner.
Additionally, President Solih said that establishing mechanisms to hold online hearings have been a success, as it negates the need for individuals to be physically present at hearings. He said the implementation of digital solutions have reduced expenditure and increased public convenience. He added that USD1.5 million has been spent on the digitalisation of the judiciary and the administration has expanded the judiciary's budget by 35% this year, compared to the year the administration took office.
Furthermore, President Solih said that the administration made efforts to construct new buildings and expand courthouses despite the economic impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. He also said that this year's budget includes the construction of courthouses in eight islands, and that a contractor will soon be hired for the construction of the court complex in Hulhumale'. He added that the bidding stage has been completed for the project to build the court complex in Addu City.