Mbonera stated that as Rwanda continues to advance its technological infrastructure, discussions are underway on how AI can be leveraged to enhance justice delivery, with promising potential benefits.
'We have identified key judicial services that could be facilitated using AI. There are certain cases with minimal complexities that, when fed into a system, could be processed based on critical inputs, allowing for faster resolution,' he explained.
'In the Prosecution Service, AI could be used to compile case files, and we have already given this significant thought. We are also exploring the technological requirements necessary to improve efficiency and service delivery,' he further elaborated.
According to Mbonera, a feasibility study is currently being conducted to assess how AI can be implemented effectively.
'We are examining which tasks within our justice system could benefit from AI and to what extent it should be applied. We will also engage stakeholders, beneficiaries, and experts to determine the best approach. This initiative will help us modernize the justice sector,' he added.
The President of the Bar Association, Moise Nkundabarashi, acknowledged the potential benefits of AI in the justice system but emphasized the need for caution.
'AI can be useful, but it must be applied with great care because justice requires human judgment and critical analysis,' he said.
He stressed the importance of conducting thorough studies to ensure that AI integration does not compromise the fairness of judicial processes.
'AI should be introduced to address specific challenges rather than create new ones. Proper oversight is essential, and I appreciate that the justice sector is already making significant progress in adopting technology,' he added.
Judiciary Spokesperson Harrison Mutabazi highlighted that AI could play a crucial role in various legal functions, including research and documentation.
'We see potential in AI assisting with tasks such as court transcription, legal research, and drafting judgments. In fact, some organizations have already approached us with proposals on AI-driven justice solutions, and we are actively considering them. As technology evolves, our courts must also adapt,' Mutabazi explained.
He reaffirmed that wherever AI proves to be effective and beneficial, it will be implemented. Mutabazi also emphasized that Rwanda's Judiciary has embraced digital transformation to enhance service delivery and will continue to leverage technology to improve justice administration.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/gov-t-mulls-the-use-of-ai-in-the-justice-system
