$178M modern Magistrate’s Court opens at Anna Regina

Residents of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) can now benefit from swifter and more accessible justice with the commissioning of a brand-new, state-of-the-art magistrate’s court at Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast.

The $178.2 million facility, constructed by Satar Mohamed and Son Construction and Hardware Supplies, promises to transform how justice is delivered in the region.

The modern building boasts a fully equipped courtroom, magistrate’s chambers, residential quarters, a clerk’s office, and briefing rooms for both prosecutors and defence counsel. It also includes dedicated spaces for handling sensitive matters — such as a domestic violence room, a drug treatment room, and a child-friendly room.

The official opening on Wednesday saw Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, joining members of the judiciary to unveil the new facility. Speaking at the event, Nandlall underscored the vital role of justice in society.

“Without justice, without law, order nothing is possible. It is the rule of law that keeps us in a civilized society,” he said.

Nandlall emphasised that the new court is part of a wider series of modern courts commissioned across the country — a clear sign of the government’s commitment to strengthening the justice system and its broader development goals.

“Without the adequate infrastructure, we cannot harness the true potential and reap maximum benefits of our resources,” he stated.

He pointed to recent investments in modern courtroom technology, highlighting advancements such as digitised case management systems, e-filing, remote hearings, and upgraded courtroom equipment.

“The Judiciary, as an important constitutional arm of Government responsibly for upholding the rule of law and the maintenance of law and order in the country, integrally benefits as part of this transformation,” Nandlall said.

Magistrate Tamieka Clarke also shared her optimism about what the new court means for the community. She noted that the magistrate’s court is often the first and most frequent point of contact between the public and the justice system, making its standards of operation crucial.

“This new court represents a step forward. Bringing justice to the people it serve. It stands not only a place of judgement but as a beacon of trust and transparency within the community,” Clarke said.

She reminded all that the court must always operate with “fairness and diligence to all those who come before it.”

The new facility is expected to ease case backlogs and ensure that residents of Region Two have a modern, accessible place to seek and receive justice — a promise of fairness and trust upheld in bricks, mortar, and technology.