People in Masambanjati, Thyolo, continue to face challenges in accessing justice as the local court remains non-operational.

Masambanjati Police Officer-in-Charge, Senior Superintendent George Kaleso, confirmed that “there is currently no functioning court at Masambanjati, and the Mapanga Magistrate Court, located in the area of Traditional Authority Mbawera, also remains closed due to the absence of a magistrate.”

He said this situation has left residents from Sandama and Zoa with no option but to travel about 60 kilometers to the Thyolo District Magistrate Court to have their cases heard.

However, the Judiciary spokesperson, Ruth Mputeni, clarified that justice services are available closer to the affected communities.

“Regarding Masambanjati, members of the public are advised that there is a court operational at Thava, close to Masambanjati, which is fully operational and currently serving that area,” said Mputeni.

She added that “there is also a court at Mphande, which is close to T/A Mbawera. There is therefore no need to travel to the District Magistrate Court.”