Africa-Press – Mauritius. Shakeel Mohamed, Minister of Lands and Housing, supported the Legal Aid Bill, emphasizing access to justice as a fundamental right. He referenced past debates and figures like Guy Ollivry and Raymond d’Unienville, noting the consistency in advocating for unrestricted access to justice.
Mohamed criticized the previous government for not understanding the importance of access to justice as a key aspect of a sovereign democratic state, as enshrined in the Constitution. He also voiced his disapproval of the opposition’s absence during the debates, suggesting they were avoiding their responsibility to improve the bill.
The Minister emphasized the bill’s focus on providing legal aid to those who cannot afford it, particularly the poor and low-income individuals who need assistance and attention. He highlighted that the government has not only listened to these needs but has also taken action to address them through the Legal Aid Bill.
Mohamed referred to an Afrobarometer survey indicating weakened public trust in the courts and police due to perceptions of corruption. The survey revealed that low-income individuals have the least trust in the justice system, underscoring the need for accessible legal aid.
He argued that ensuring fair investigations and trials requires providing legal advice and assistance from the initial stages of questioning. The Minister stressed the importance of not only drafting laws but also giving them life by integrating them into the legal system to benefit those who need legal aid.
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