Federal High Court issues new practice directions for pre-election cases, registries to open on weekends

Issued by Chief Judge Justice John Tsoho, these directions aim to streamline the judicial process by focusing on genuinely contested issues, minimizing interlocutory matters, and encouraging amicable settlements. The new rules also seek to reduce adjournments and delays. In a significant move to address the time-sensitive nature of pre-election disputes, court registries in all judicial divisions will now operate on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from 10 am to 2 pm, exclusively for filing pre-election matters.

The directions also allow for the use of electronic communication and virtual hearings to expedite proceedings. The court will prioritize all pre-election matters until judgment is delivered, and generally, no more than two adjournments will be granted to any party.