Covid-19 proves to be obstacle, says Mamu

PUBLIC Solicitor Leslie Mamu says Covid-19 has proved to be a huge obstacle for his office and his lawyers. He made this known after submitting to Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae the office of the Public Solicitor’s annual report for 2020. “Much of our operations and projects were impeded because of the Covid-19,” he said. “We would have seen the office leap forward in many fronts but because of the Covid-19, it has slowed down much of our activities. “Because of the Covid-19, we suspended legal aid. “It’s still suspended. We are in the process of lifting the suspension.
“The suspension means that legal aid applicants have been asked to return at a later date. “We hope to lift the suspension and allow for people to come in and access the services. “That is the main aspect of impediment caused by the Covid-19.” Mamu said a lack of funding for the office had been an issue. He said they were planning for a budget submission to the Government in August. “We can only ask. We continue to ask, we continue to justify the figures we ask for from the government,” he said. “We understand the challenges that the government face in terms of cash flow in the country. “Frankly, the budget that was given over the years, last year and this year is really a laughing matter. “Let us work with what we are given and deliver to the people the services that are needed.”