Chief Justice Salesi Temo recently underscored the vital role of accountability within Fiji’s judiciary during a discussion at the Law and Justice Talanoa. He emphasized that while the judiciary should maintain its independence, it must also be open to scrutiny and criticism to enhance public trust.
At this gathering, attended by legal professionals, agency heads, and government officials, Chief Justice Temo outlined the foundational principles of the rule of law—impartiality, procedural fairness, and judicial independence. He stated that justice cannot thrive in isolation; rather, it requires transparency and ongoing dialogue among all stakeholders.
He remarked, “Justice, like governance itself, does not operate in isolation. It thrives on cohesion, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to evolution.” This statement reflects the judiciary’s commitment to not only uphold laws but also adapt to the changing dynamics of society to serve the public effectively.
Reinforcing the importance of these discussions, Temo connected this meeting to ongoing judicial reforms aimed at making the justice system more accessible and efficient. His previous engagements have addressed systemic challenges, such as the backlog of cases, to align with Fiji’s Vision 2050 and National Development Plan for 2025-2029.
Overall, Chief Justice Temo’s initiatives embody a promising future for Fiji’s legal landscape, presenting a proactive stance towards creating a fair and responsive judiciary that prioritizes both accountability and public trust.
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