By Nakasia Logan
In a significant move aimed at bolstering the country’s judicial system, nine attorneys at law were sworn in as magistrates today before Prime Minister Mark Phillips.
This development is expected to greatly improve access to justice and alleviate the caseload within the judicial system.
The newly appointed magistrates include Tamieka Clarke, Tuanna Hardy, Abigail Gibbs, Shivani Lalaram, Michelle Matthias, Teriq Mohammed, Ravindra Mohabir, Omadatt Chandan, and Orinthia Schmidt.
The addition of these magistrates aims to enhance the capacity of the judiciary to expedite the delivery of justice.
With their diverse backgrounds and extensive experience in criminal and civil law, the new magistrates are poised to contribute effectively to the administration of justice in Guyana.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips emphasized the importance of impartiality and efficiency in the magistrates’ role during his address to them.
He expressed hope that their appointment would accelerate the resolution of cases within the legal system and urged them to uphold fairness and effectiveness in their duties.
Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Yonette Cummings-Edwards, highlighted the rigorous selection process undergone by the new magistrates, including extensive interviews.
She affirmed their readiness to serve the people of Guyana and underscored the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice reaches every corner of the country.
The decision to appoint additional magistrates follows calls for an expansion of the judicial workforce to address the backlog of cases, as voiced by Supreme Court Registrar Sueanna Lovell in October 2023.
With more appointments expected in the future, the justice system is poised to further strengthen its capacity to serve the people of Guyana.