President Wiliame Katonivere emphasized the significance of reflection during his three-year tenure as Fiji’s Head of State. Speaking at the Judicial Officers Workshop in Nadi over the weekend, he highlighted the developments he has observed within the Judiciary sector.
In his address, the President acknowledged the privilege of engaging with judicial officers as they come together to discuss advancements in their field and to strengthen professional networking. He stressed that the Judiciary, being a crucial part of the Government, requires periodic reflection on both its achievements and challenges.
“Reflection allows us to critically assess the decisions and actions we have taken, giving us the opportunity to reinforce our way forward,” he stated. He pointed out that such reflection helps to ensure that decisions made are informed and intentional, benefitting the communities and the nation at large.
Katonivere reminded participants of their roles as defenders of the rule of law, emphasizing their responsibility as stewards of public trust. He urged judicial officers to uphold integrity and dignity in their work, ensuring access to justice for all citizens. He underscored the importance of impartiality, fairness, and efficiency as foundational elements of a democratic society.
The President reiterated the Judiciary’s Vision Statement aimed at maintaining an independent and impartial judicial system, while highlighting the necessity of accountability in fulfilling that commitment. He called on judicial officers to be mindful of their assessments and prioritize transparent decision-making.
Moreover, he stressed the critical need for maintaining checks and balances to uphold the rule of law and ensure a fair judicial system. He encouraged greater collaboration with international partners and regional stakeholders, noting that leveraging available resources—from expertise to technological advancements—would enhance both individual standards and those of the judicial organization.
In closing, President Katonivere urged judicial professionals to engage with one another, share experiences, and implement learnings with the integrity that defines their profession.
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