President Jennifer Simons on Monday, September 28, swore in fifteen legal professionals as deputy members of the Hof van Justitie (High Court of Justice). During the ceremony at the Presidentieel Paleis (Presidential Palace), she stressed that independence, impartiality and trust form the basis of the judicial office.
According to Simons, a judge’s responsibility extends beyond applying legal knowledge. Judicial decisions can affect a person’s freedom, family life, income or good name. Facts must therefore be weighed carefully, the president said. She called on the new magistrates to remain calm in high-profile cases and to administer justice with regard for the consequences of their rulings.
Speaking on behalf of the sworn-in legal professionals, Cherida Harris referred to a long and demanding training programme. According to her, the group is aware of the responsibility it is taking on. “Behind every case file is a person,” Harris said. That person must be able to trust that the judge will make a fair, independent and impartial decision.
Harris thanked the Hof van Justitie and the government for the confidence placed in them. She also reflected on the support provided by family members during the programme.
In addition to Harris, Genaro Alpin, Kajal Tahdil, Olton Helstone, Vanessa Akaamba, Anushka Bajnath, Julio Amatoemar, Nathaly Amatkarijo, Maya Behari, Grasila Sitaram, Shusant Mohan, Latoya Rozenblad, Stephanie Kent, Charisma Blank and Negesty Winter were sworn in.
