BY ROMINAH FAKA

CHIEF Justice, Sir Albert Palmer opened the 2025 legal year yesterday emphasising the importance of adequate financial support for the judiciary.

Delivering his remarks at the High Court, Sir Albert described financial security as a fundamental pillar of judicial independence.

“Unfortunately, this remains a significant challenge, with the judiciary often receiving insufficient funding,” he said.

Sir Palmer cited the Latimer House Guidelines for the Commonwealth that highlighted ‘the necessity of Funding, stressing that adequate and sustainable financial support is essential for the judiciary to perform its functions to the highest standards.

“This support is critical for upholding the rule of law, maintaining good governance and democracy, and ensuring the effective administration of justice,” he added.
He said that national security is a major focus today, shaped by global peace, geopolitics, and regional stability.

However, the Chief Justice said it is crucial to recognize that national security is closely tied to the judiciary’s role in administering justice.

“Concerns about law and order are closely linked to the ability of the courts to deliver timely and effective justice,” he noted.

Sir Albert emphasised that the five pillars of the criminal justice sector: Police, Prosecutions, Courts, Correctional Services, and the Community—along with the legal profession, must receive equal support to ensure effective checks and balances in law and order.

“The courts are a vital component as the third branch of government; therefore, it is imperative that they receive the necessary support to operate effectively,” he remarked.

“Any assistance provided in the name of national security must ensure that this critical balance is maintained. The stability of regional and international security fundamentally relies on the existence of national peace and security,” he added.