Chief Justice Hussain Shaheed of the High Court has emphasized that the benefits of the state justice system can only be realized if both human and structural resources are accessible to all state entities. He made these remarks during the launch of the High Court's Strategic Action Plan 2025-2027.
In his address, Chief Justice Shaheed reflected on the court’s evolution as an appellate court over its 44-year history, attributing this growth to efforts aimed at strengthening judicial processes. He acknowledged the disparity between the public’s expectations for an orderly trial process, swift access to justice, and modern technological integration, and the current realities of the judicial system. He stressed that it is the High Court’s responsibility to meet these expectations.
The newly launched Strategic Action Plan aims to enhance the court's operations through effective case management, fostering public confidence in the justice system, and modernizing processes in collaboration with sector partners. Chief Justice Shaheed announced plans to establish an e-High Court to facilitate a paperless environment and create a capable team to improve the working atmosphere.
He also reported that efforts to modernize the court's administrative structure have commenced, with a new structure submitted for approval to the relevant authorities. Acknowledging the challenges posed by legal changes, he urged that court perspectives should be considered during law design, while also highlighting budgetary constraints and administrative hurdles.
The High Court serves as the primary appellate court for cases decided by 187 Magistrate Courts across 20 atolls, as well as five Superior Courts and tribunals in Male'.