Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has extended his congratulations to Justice Filimone Jitoko on his recent appointment as the new Speaker of the Parliament of Fiji. Rabuka noted that Justice Jitoko’s distinguished career and extensive experience position him well for this significant role.
Justice Jitoko has a rich academic background, graduating from the University of the South Pacific in 1969 before earning his Bachelor of Laws from Victoria University in Wellington, New Zealand, in 1978. His career in diplomacy and law is marked by noteworthy achievements, including obtaining certificates in Multilateral Negotiations and International Diplomacy in 1980. He subsequently served as Fiji’s Secretary to its missions in New York and Washington, D.C.
Upon returning to Fiji, Justice Jitoko was appointed Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court from 1985 to 1987, followed by a six-year tenure as Solicitor General for the Fiji Government. He later held the position of Secretary to Cabinet from 1993 to 1996 and served as Fiji’s Ambassador to Israel, Brussels, and Denmark, showcasing his diplomatic prowess.
In 2002, Mr. Jitoko returned to Fiji to serve as a High Court Judge until 2009. His international contributions continued when he became the Chief Justice of the Nauru Supreme Court, serving from 2000 to 2017 and acting as Registrar from 2015 to 2017.
Prime Minister Rabuka expressed confidence that Justice Jitoko’s extensive background will enable him to serve Fiji with excellence in his new capacity as Speaker of Parliament.
This new appointment reflects a significant transition for Fiji’s governance, promising a blend of experience and leadership that could positively influence the legislative process in the country.
In summary, Justice Filimone Jitoko’s impressive career and qualifications suggest a hopeful future for parliamentary leadership in Fiji, as he embarks on this new chapter of public service.
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