Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has congratulated Justice Filimone Jitoko on his recent appointment as the new Speaker of the Parliament of Fiji. Rabuka highlighted Justice Jitoko’s impressive career and extensive expertise that he brings to this important position.
Justice Jitoko graduated from the University of the South Pacific in 1969, later obtaining his Bachelor of Laws from Victoria University in Wellington, New Zealand, and being admitted to the New Zealand Bar in 1978. His career trajectory in diplomacy and law is notable; in 1980, he earned certificates in Multilateral Negotiations in New York and International Diplomacy in Washington, D.C., subsequently serving as Fiji’s Secretary to its missions in these cities.
Upon his return to Fiji, he served as the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court from 1985 to 1987, followed by a position as Solicitor General for six years. From 1993 to 1996, Jitoko was the Secretary to Cabinet. His diplomatic service included notable roles as Fiji’s Ambassador to Israel, Brussels, and Denmark.
In 2002, he returned to Fiji to serve as a High Court Judge until 2009. Jitoko also held significant international positions, including Chief Justice of the Nauru Supreme Court from 2000 to 2017, alongside his role as Registrar from 2015 to 2017.
Prime Minister Rabuka expressed confidence that Justice Jitoko’s extensive experience will significantly benefit Fiji in his new role as Speaker of Parliament.
This appointment is a promising development for Fiji, as it ensures that an experienced and well-respected legal professional will lead parliamentary proceedings, potentially fostering greater stability and effectiveness within the government.
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