 |
| No.4 April, 2010 |
|
| |
|
| |
Justice Geoffrey Ma named Chief Justice |
|
| |
|
|
| |
 Hong Kong’s Judiciary is to be headed by a new Chief Justice from September 1, with Justice Geoffrey Ma succeeding Andrew Li.
Chief Executive Donald Tsang said the appointment - based on advice from the Judicial Officers Recommendation Commission – further highlighted the value with which Hong Kong placed on its independent Judiciary.
He described Justice Ma as an outstanding lawyer with exceptional judicial, professional and personal qualities, a man of high integrity commanding strong respect within and outside the Judiciary, including the legal profession. Having served with distinction as High Court Chief Judge for nearly seven years, Justice Ma also has proven administrative and leadership qualities, Mr Tsang added.
"An independent Judiciary has been and will remain a cornerstone of Hong Kong's stability and prosperity," Mr Tsang said.
"The people of Hong Kong have high expectations of the Judiciary in upholding the rule of law, ensuring the fair and efficient administration of justice and safeguarding the rights and freedoms of the individual. I am confident Justice Ma will discharge his duties as head of the Judiciary with distinction."
Justice Ma has vowed to uphold the rule of law and protect judicial independence, as well as ensuring the Judiciary continued to safeguard the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong’s people.
Meanwhile, Justices Robert Tang, Frank Stock and Michael Hartmann have been appointed non-permanent Hong Kong judges to the Court of Final Appeal.
Mr Tsang hailed them as outstanding lawyers with considerable experience in handling criminal and civil cases, including constitutional matters. Their appointments will increase the number of non-permanent Hong Kong judges from three to six and will provide much-needed flexibility in dealing with the Court of Final Appeal's caseload, he said.
The Administration will seek the endorsement of the Legislative Council of the recommended appointment.
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| |
 |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
