Chief Justice Salesi Temo reinforced the judiciary’s dedication to the rule of law, impartiality, and independence during the inaugural Law and Justice Talanoa held in Suva. Highlighting the principles of impartiality, procedural fairness, and independence, Temo emphasized their critical role in fortifying Fiji’s justice system.
He stated that the application of law must be based solely on evidence, devoid of bias or external influence. While advocating for an independent judiciary, Temo acknowledged that it should still be subject to scrutiny and accountability to maintain public trust.
The two-day Talanoa convened legal stakeholders, government agencies, and partners aiming to address systemic challenges and improve access to justice. The discussions formed part of broader judicial reforms aligned with Fiji’s Vision 2050 and the National Development Plan for 2025-2029.
Justice Temo’s previous discussions on reforming civil court rules also resonate with his current focus. He has expressed a deep concern about the backlog of cases, some dating back to the 1990s, which undermines timely justice—a right guaranteed under the law. To tackle these issues, he envisions engaging with senior lawyers and legal professionals to streamline procedures and enhance the efficiency of the judiciary.
These ongoing reforms aim to restore confidence in the justice system, ensuring that justice becomes more accessible and prompt for all citizens. The collective effort to refine legal protocols represents a hopeful step towards a fairer and more responsive judicial framework in Fiji.
Overall, these initiatives reflect a commitment to fostering an equitable legal environment, promising advancements in both efficiency and public trust in the judiciary.
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