Judge Natasha Burian Sworn In to Head Seychelles’ New Commercial Court
VICTORIA, Seychelles — The judiciary of Seychelles has announced the establishment of a dedicated commercial court aimed at streamlining the resolution of commercial disputes and enhancing the ease of doing business in the country. Judge Natasha Burian has been appointed as head of the newly established court, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a progressive vision for commercial justice.
She was sworn in yesterday morning at State House, where she took the oath of allegiance to the Constitution and the judicial oath before President Wavel Ramkalawan, members of the Constitutional Appointments Authority, and fellow judges. Judge Burian was appointed following recommendations from the Constitutional Appointments Authority, in accordance with Articles 126-127 of the Constitution of the Republic of Seychelles. ‘I feel extremely privileged to have been given the opportunity to advance in my career, and I am deeply grateful to my family, friends, and colleagues who have supported me throughout this journey. This is the biggest moment in my professional career, and I am thrilled to have such strong support around me,’ said Judge Burian following her appointment.
The commercial court will adjudicate a wide range of matters, including contractual disputes, banking, finance, insurance, enforcement of foreign judgments, and criminal cases with a commercial element such as anti-corruption, money laundering, and proceeds of crime. Speaking of the launch, Judge Burian said ‘it is important to put businesses at ease and for them to know that if they find themselves in a legal dispute, they will be able to obtain a swift resolution. For this reason, we are making mediation compulsory for all commercial matters, encouraging businesses to maintain cordial relationships after resolution.’ President Ramkalawan congratulated Judge Burian, acknowledging the significant workload that comes with her new role and expressing confidence in her abilities.
