Kiribati’s parliament voted to remove an Australian judge from the High Court, edging closer to his deportation.
David Lambourne’s suspension from office two years ago on allegations of misconduct sparked a judicial crisis that has left the Pacific Island nation without any senior judges.
Justice Lambourne has fought a long-running legal battle to block his suspension but overnight the country’s parliament voted in favour of a resolution advising President Taneti Maamau to remove him from the High Court.
It’s effectively the penultimate step in the process to sack a judge and all that remains is for the president to sign an order authorising his removal.
Justice Lambourne has lived in Kiribati for many years and is married to the current opposition leader, Tessie Lambourne.
The Kiribati high court judge removal vote sparks reactions from legal experts and human rights organizations worldwide. Furthermore, it prompts calls for transparency and accountability in Kiribati’s judicial proceedings.
Additionally, the incident underscores the need for international scrutiny and support for the preservation of judicial independence in Kiribati. Moreover, it serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values and respecting the separation of powers in safeguarding the rule of law.
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