The Judiciary has rolled out a fresh set of rules under the Judiciary Client Charter 2024–2029, urging litigants and all court users to uphold higher standards of discipline, professionalism, and respect while appearing before the courts. The guidelines are aimed at improving efficiency and strengthening the administration of justice.
A key highlight of the new directives is a strict dress code requirement. Court users are now expected to dress decently when attending court sessions, with a clear ban on clothing that carries offensive writings, images, or symbols while on court premises.
The charter also places strong emphasis on maintaining order within court facilities. Litigants are prohibited from idling, vending, eating without permission, or using mobile phones and electronic devices during proceedings unless they are switched off or kept on silent mode.
Further behavioural expectations include respect for court procedures and judicial decisions, punctual attendance for hearings, and submission of proper documentation. The Judiciary also insists that all court fees must be paid as required, with receipts safely kept for reference.
Security and professionalism within court environments have also been reinforced. Court users are barred from carrying dangerous weapons and are expected to avoid corruption, abusive language, obscene gestures, or any disruptive behaviour such as shouting, singing, or chanting during proceedings.
At the same time, the charter empowers citizens by outlining their rights within the justice system. These include access to information, fair and timely hearings, certified copies of court records, and the right to receive judgments and rulings in both physical and electronic formats upon request.
The Judiciary itself has also committed to stricter performance standards, including observing official working hours from Monday to Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, maintaining a safe working environment, preserving records, and treating all court users with courtesy and professionalism. It also pledged to deliver judgments within 60 days after hearings, with the Supreme Court given up to 90 days.
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