Africa-Press – Botswana. President Advocate Duma Boko presided over the swearing-in of Botswana’s newest judicial leaders, calling the event “a notable shift in the country’s judicial system.” The ceremony marked an important moment in the nation’s legal history, bringing fresh leadership to key positions within the judiciary.
The appointments included Justice Modiri Letsididi and Advocate Sidney Pilane to the Court of Appeal, Justice William Moncho to the High Court, Filbert Nagafela as a member of the Judicial Service Commission, and Kgosietsile Ngakaagae as the Director of Public Prosecutions. Each individual carries significant experience in law, advocacy, and public service, strengthening Botswana’s judicial framework at a time when global and domestic challenges continue to test legal systems.
President Boko praised the appointees for their “priceless legal experience and wisdom,” emphasizing that the calibre of judges directly influences the future of the nation. He reminded the country that strong and capable courts not only resolve disputes but also safeguard democracy, rights, and the rule of law.
Highlighting the need for innovation in the judiciary, the President introduced the idea of judicial clerkships. He described this as a mechanism to support judges with research, writing, and case preparation while providing opportunities for young legal professionals to gain valuable experience. This approach, he said, would modernize the system while building a new generation of legal minds capable of carrying Botswana’s judicial legacy forward.
President Boko also spoke candidly about the weight of judicial responsibility. He acknowledged that court rulings often face intense scrutiny from the public, the legal community, and academia. He urged the newly sworn-in officers to uphold integrity, reminding them that criticism should be faced with resilience rather than doubt. “Do not wilt under criticism, but bear it with fortitude,” he said.
The appointments come at a time when Botswana is aiming to reassert its judiciary as a respected authority on the continent. The President expressed confidence that the new leaders would help restore and enhance the prestige of Botswana’s legal system. He stressed that justice is not only about the technical application of the law but also about ensuring fairness, accountability, and trust in the courts.
By affirming Botswana’s commitment to judicial excellence, President Boko positioned the new appointments as more than ceremonial changes. He described them as a step forward in strengthening the foundations of justice for all citizens. The ceremony closed with a sense of renewed confidence in the nation’s courts, setting the tone for a judiciary ready to meet present and future challenges.
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