Justice Minister Walid Al-Samaani met with criminal court heads in Riyadh to discuss updates in legislation and emphasize the role of court presidents in expediting justice.
He acknowledged the support from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, urging judges to use digital tools for efficient case handling and justice delivery.
Al-Samaani reaffirmed defendants' rights, including access to legal counsel and indictment copies, and stressed the importance of thorough legal reasoning in court rulings.
Riyadh, August 27, 2024
Yesterday, Justice Minister Walid Al-Samaani convened a significant meeting with the esteemed heads of criminal courts in Riyadh. The purpose of this gathering was to emphasize the latest developments in the field of criminal justice and ensure that all participants are well-informed about the most recent legislative changes.
In his address, Minister Al-Samaani expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support that the judiciary receives from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. He also acknowledged the crucial oversight of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Their steadfast commitment continues to be a pillar of strength for the judicial system.
Al-Samaani underscored the vital role of the criminal court presidents, highlighting their responsibility to expedite justice effectively. He encouraged them to remain vigilant in monitoring the progress of cases and to work towards enhancing the efficiency of judicial panels.
The Justice Minister also emphasized the importance of embracing the digital transformation initiatives undertaken by the ministry. These advancements are aimed at facilitating a more swift delivery of justice and ensuring the rapid recovery of rights.
Furthermore, Al-Samaani reaffirmed the fundamental rights of defendants, including their right to legal counsel, full knowledge of the charges against them, and access to indictment copies. He reiterated the principle of confrontation and stressed the court's duty to provide comprehensive legal reasoning for its rulings.
This meeting marked a pivotal moment in reinforcing the commitment to a fair and efficient judicial process, reflecting the continued dedication to upholding the principles of justice and transparency.
