President Duma Gideon Boko today presided over the swearing-in ceremony of three new judges of the Court of Appeal: Justice Tshepo Motswagole, Justice Michael Leburu, and Justice Lot Moroka.
Delivering a powerful keynote address, President Boko underscored the sanctity and responsibility of the legal profession, emphasising that becoming a judge is not just a career but a calling defined by rigorous ethical and professional standards.
“We know it is a profession because there are rituals that apply,” he said. “There is a ritual that you go through when you are admitted into the legal profession. You have to be assessed. And it has to be determined that you are fit and proper.”
The President elaborated on the high expectations placed on legal practitioners, particularly judges. “You may have the qualifications, having read law and acquired it. But there is a rigorous assessment that determines that you are fit and proper. And a judge has to make that decision when you are admitted into the profession.”
He further reminded the new judges of the continuous responsibility to uphold the values of justice and ethical conduct. “There are protocols on how you must behave so that you remain in the profession. And if you fall short, you will be offloaded.”
In a moment of philosophical reflection, President Boko stated:
“They are not final because they are infallible. They are infallible because they are final. Because they are the final instance. Beyond them, there is little to know.”
Quoting Shakespeare with a blend of irony and tradition, he added, “Justice, even if the heavens fall. As Shakespeare says, ‘The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers.’ I shall lead you to that office.”
The President concluded his speech by thanking the new judges and wishing them wisdom and integrity in their judicial duties.( Source- BWPresdency)
