VICTORIA, Seychelles — A delegation of 11 chief justices from across Southern and Eastern Africa paid a courtesy call on Vice-President Sebastien Pillay at State House, with discussions prominently featuring the principles of the rule of law, separation of powers, and judicial independence. The chief justices meeting Vice-President Pillay took place during the Southern and Eastern African Chief Justices’ Leadership Forum, held from April 22 to 24 under the theme ‘Judicial Leadership and Innovation’.
Vice-President Pillay welcomed the delegation and underscored the importance of upholding the separation of powers and safeguarding judicial independence, noting that the government works in close partnership with the judiciary, guided by the Constitution which enshrines these principles. He emphasised that engagement remains constructive and firmly respectful of these constitutional foundations.
The vice-president highlighted important milestones achieved in strengthening the relationship between the government and the judiciary, including key infrastructure developments. He noted that this engagement has played a valuable role in enhancing the exchange of best practices. The delegation deemed it important to engage the Executive to share reflections on the conference deliberations and express overall satisfaction with the outcomes.
Chief Justice Rony Govinden stated that the deliberations and training sessions had strengthened regional judicial cooperation and enhanced leadership and court management capacities, reinforcing a shared commitment to judicial independence, access to justice, and institutional reform. He expressed confidence in continued engagement to translate outcomes into practical reforms benefiting citizens across the region.
Chief Justice Govinden confirmed the collective commitment of the chief justices to uphold and safeguard the rule of law as a fundamental pillar across all participating jurisdictions. Sangwani Nyimbiri, coordinator of SEACJF, praised Seychelles for its warm hospitality, noting the forum continues to serve as a vital platform for peer learning and collaboration, enabling judiciaries across the region to collectively respond to emerging challenges and strengthen the administration of justice.
