Striking lawyers in Swaziland say they will establish their own courts, following a bitter dispute with the country's judiciary.

Lawyers went on strike three weeks ago to demand the dismissal of Chief Justice Michael Ramodibedi, whom they accuse of sexual and professional misconduct.

The strike has virtually paralyzed Swaziland's court system.

Now the Swaziland Law Society says it will set up alternative courts, with senior attorneys serving as judges. It says cases will be decided based on existing arbitration law and that rulings would be binding.

Lucky Howe, a member of the society, says lawyers decided to act because litigants are suffering.

There was no immediate reaction Tuesday from Swazi judicial authorities.

Swaziland is Africa's last absolute monarchy but political unrest has increased this year. King Mswati 's government also is running short of cash and has threatened to cut workers' salaries.

The political and economic problems have prompted protests by activists demanding reform – in particular, the right to form political parties.