Recently, the construction of a new Magistrates Court in Anna Regina, Region Two, was officially launched by AG Mohabir Anil Nandlall SC, Justice Roxane George SC, Chief Justice (AG), and Justice Yonette Cummings, Chancellor of the Judiciary (AG).
It will cost $178,232,102 to complete this project. It is likely to take 9 to 12 months.
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Along with staff members from the Supreme Court of Judicature, the appointed magistrates for Region Two (Ms. Esther Sam and Ms. Faith McGusty), the regional chairperson, Ms. Vilma De Silva, and the regional vice chairman, Mr. Humace Ooudit, were in attendance. The occasion was also attended by the Mayor of Anna Regina, Mr. Devin Mohan.
The Attorney General emphasized the project in his short remarks as yet another illustration of the government’s dedication to the rule of law. It also shows support for the judiciary to improve access to justice for Guyana’s citizens.
Where the Anna Regina magistrates court was housed
The Anna Regina Magistrates Court has been housed at the Anna Regina Police Station since independence. This is according to the Attorney General. The AG said that it will finally receive a new abode.
The Minister of Legal Affairs claimed that the new courts have already been built in Suddie and Charity. The minister also pointed out a number of magistrates’ courts that are under construction around the country.
In addition, living quarters and offices have already been built at Onderneeming for the prosecutors from the Director of Public Prosecutions Chambers handling cases on the Essequibo Coast. A significant edifice is being built at Suddie. It will also accommodate the Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority.
All of these are part of the transformative changes taking place in nearly every undertaking in the region, not just in the way justice is carried out in Region Two.
In her remarks, the Chancellor commended the Central Government for the continuous support the judiciary has received. She promised more support for the magistrate to facilitate the swift settlement of cases in the region. A land court judge would soon be appointed for the Essequibo Coast, the Chancellor further pledged.
