Suriname President appoints fifteen new members to Court of Justice

President Jennifer Simons has appointed fifteen new substitute members to the Court of Justice in Suriname. The appointment ceremony took place on Monday, September 28, at the Presidential Palace, attended by Vice President Gregory Rusland and Court President Iwan Rasoelbaks.

During the ceremony, President Simons emphasized that the judicial role is built upon the pillars of independence, impartiality, and trust. She reminded the new members of their significant responsibility, noting that their decisions impact fundamental human elements such as freedom, family, income, and reputation. She urged the judges to remain calm and balanced in high-profile or polarizing cases to maintain a peaceful and just society.

The new members are expected to begin their duties in the upcoming judicial year starting in October. This expansion aims to increase the Court's capacity, alleviate workload, and shorten case processing times. The new judges are part of a broader effort to strengthen the judiciary; following the completion of a three-year civil training program, the total number of judges could potentially rise to 45.