MANSA High Court Judge In-Charge Emelia Sunkutu is assured of the government’s commitment to empower the judiciary to fully implement the Children’s Code Act number 12 of 2022.

 Judge Sunkutu noted that the Mansa High Court’s lack of infrastructure and resources has made it challenging to implement certain provisions of the Children Code Act.

Speaking during the ceremonial opening of the High Court Criminal Sessions for Luapula Province at the Mansa High Court Building in Mansa district, she noted that the Children’s Code Act of 2022 is generally good legislation that needs some amendments to put it in context with the Zambian situation.

“For example, the High Court is supposed to have appropriate child-friendly courtrooms and facilities. In the event that they are called upon to testify, the Children’s Code prescribes for video link testimony for children, conferencing and the use of separate screens and many others which require appropriate infrastructure and funds,” she said.

Judge Sunkutu, however, observed that the Judiciary is aware the government does not have unlimited financial resources and the resources available have to compete with numerous other demands of the government.

“But we remain hopeful and expectant that in the fullness of time, the government will look into the issue of empowering the judiciary to fully implement the Children’s Code Act of 2022 which is generally a progressive piece of legislation although it needs some amendments,” she said.

Government has commenced the process of repealing the provisions of the Children’s Code which impede rather than promote and enhance child justice delivery.