President Adama Barrow yesterday presided over the swear-in ceremony of Justice Omar MM Njie as Judge to the Supreme Court, Justice Naceesay Sallah-Wadda as President of the Appeal Court and Haddy Jobe as Commissioner of the Independent Electoral Commission.
The swear-in ceremony was held at the State House, Banjul.
Speaking after the ceremony, President Barrow said his government has now appointed six Gambians to the Supreme Court Justices.
“There is no doubt that we have delivered on our promise to ‘Gambianise’ the Judiciary, which is the only way to minimise our dependence on external judges for the operations of our Judiciary. Similarly, we expect Madam Haddy Jobe’s appointment as Commissioner of the Independent Electoral Commission will (to) add value to the work of the Commission.
“My government is aware of the key role the judiciary plays in the quest for a stable and progressive nation wherein we uphold the rule of law, and all are equal before the law. This is critical for the achievement of our goal to promote access to justice, economic prosperity, increased foreign direct investments, and enjoyment of peace and harmony.
“It is undisputed that the law places a heavy burden on judges whose role it is to dispense justice. This is a difficult role to play, and it requires Judges to be neutral and fair in their approach to cases brought before them,” he said.
He emphasised that “as Judges, distinguished scholars, the matters you preside over, your treatment of litigants and the ruling and judgments you deliver contribute significantly to peaceful co-existence and order. Furthermore, you play a crucial role in boosting public trust in our judicial institutions as the right forum to settle differences. Your work can strengthen our growing democracy considerably and guarantee peace and stability.”
In view of all these, he went on “I must reiterate my government’s commitment to supporting and developing the Judiciary for the realisation of the objectives outlined in its new strategic plan. I assure you of our determination to remedy the current infrastructure deficit, with a view to modernising our judiciary and improving the terms of service of judicial officers.
“Public confidence in the Judiciary, as the last resort for justice, grows when we have the right calibre of judges presiding over the Courts. I am optimistic that, with the quality of judges in our superior courts, the Judiciary will continue to uphold the doctrines of their noble profession, by acting with honesty, independence, impartiality, and integrity in the discharge of their duties,” he expressed.
He, therefore advised saying “I advise that you give special attention to the development of a Judicial Training Institute to build the capacity of the Judicial Officers and staff. I trust that the in-coming Justice of The Supreme Court and the new President of the Court of Appeal will contribute extensively to the effective and speedy dispensation of justice in The Gambia.”
According to him, he believes strongly that their appointments will boost the moral and professional standing of their respective institutions.