The newly appointed judges include three Gambians: Omar Cham, Omar Suso and Yakarr Cox, and a Nigerian - Sonia E. Akinbiyi.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, Hussein Thomasi, Solicitor General and Legal Secretary at the Ministry of Justice, congratulated the new judges. He emphasised the position of a judge is one of the most revered in society, requiring not only legal knowledge but also integrity, impartiality, wisdom, and a deep sense of justice.
Judges hold a unique place in democracy, with the power to uphold the law, defend the Constitution, and ensure justice is served, no matter the challenges, the Solicitor General stated.
As the newly appointed judges took their oaths, SG Thomasi reminded them of the sacred trust placed in the judiciary, a trust rooted in the belief that judges would be fair and impartial, committed to truth and justice, and unwavering in their dedication to the rule of law.
“Your legal careers have been marked by diligence, fairness, and a commitment to justice,” he added.
The Honourable Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow also congratulated the judges, saying their significance lies not just in their numbers but in their wealth of judicial experience, legal practice, and academic excellence.
He applauded their contributions to students, legal literature, public affairs, leadership, and integrity: “We have full confidence that with your background, you will make a significant contribution to the administration of justice in this country.”
Chief Justice Jallow highlighted a few key qualities for judicial officers, saying they include knowledge of the law, a reasonable dose of wisdom, and an understanding of human and public affairs.
“When it comes to integrity, however, we expect more than just a small or good dose; we expect full integrity from judicial officers,” he challenged the esteemed judges.
He also implored all members of the legal profession not to obstruct justice but to act as catalysts for it.
Frederick C. Forster, Vice President of the Gambia Bar Association, remarked that the public is increasingly turning to the courts for judicial redress, which directly impacts the judiciary’s service delivery capacity. He reasoned that the appointment of more judges would help address the challenges posed by the large volume of cases currently before both the subordinate and the superior courts.
“The appointments are a testament to a track record of excellence, competence, ability, and integrity,” Mr Forster said.
On behalf of the newly appointed judges, Justice Sonia B. Akinbiyi thanked President Adama Barrow, the Chief Justice and the Supreme Court justices for the trust placed in them. She emphasised their commitment to serving diligently, transparently, and honestly, mindful of the admonitions in the Holy Books that they will be judged by the same standards with which they judge others.
“With God’s guidance, our goal is to deliver justice without delay and with the fear of God,” affirmed Justice Akinbiyi.
