The Chief Justice, Domitilla Mukantaganzwa, on Friday, January 16, urged newly appointed judicial officials to uphold integrity and shun corruption, warning that public trust in the justice system depends on their conduct and commitment to the rule of law.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of 62 court officials, including 25 judges and 37 registrars, Mukantaganzwa emphasized that delivering justice is a demanding but critical responsibility shared across all levels of the judiciary.

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"Administering justice is not an easy task at any level. Whether at the Supreme Court or lower courts, trying cases is a hard job, but an essential one. We must be particularly careful so that Rwandans receive justice they can trust and deserve.”

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Addressing judges, Mukantaganzwa noted that while litigation inevitably produces a winner and a loser, the most important consideration is strict adherence to the law and respect for Rwanda’s values and legal culture.

"When people come before the courts, one party will win and the other will lose. What matters most is that decisions are made in accordance with the law and, where necessary, our national culture.”

The Chief Justice also highlighted the critical role of court registrars, describing them as the "heart of the judiciary” due to their role in connecting judges with the public. She welcomed the youthful composition of the newly appointed registrars, saying it reflects the need for fresh energy within the justice sector.

"You are young, and the judiciary needs fresh blood to maintain a strong foundation,” she said. "We believe you have joined this sector to grow in experience, build capacity, and advance through different levels of the judiciary.”

On integrity, Mukantaganzwa stressed that safeguarding the judiciary’s reputation remains a top priority, particularly in the fight against corruption.

"One of the key challenges we face is corruption-related conduct. I urge those being sworn in today not to engage in corruption, to make transparent decisions, and to maintain good conduct so that the public continues to trust the judiciary.”

Mukantaganzwa emphasized that both new and experienced judicial officials must uphold high ethical standards, noting that the behaviour of judicial officers directly shapes public confidence in the justice system.

As part of ongoing efforts to eradicate corruption within the judiciary, the Chief Justice recalled that the High Council of the Judiciary, keeps on dismissing judges and court registrars over corruption-related offenses.

Last December, the High Council of the Judiciary dismissed two judges and a court registrar over corruption-related acts.

Another judge was suspended for professional misconduct, according to resolutions adopted at a council meeting held on December 31, chaired by Mukantaganzwa.