Justice Temo sworn-in as Fiji’s Acting Chief Justice

Justice Salesi Temo was sworn in as the Acting Chief Justice by the President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere at the State House this afternoon.

His appointment follows the suspension of Chief Justice Kamal Kumar on allegations of misbehavior earlier this week.

In accordance with Chapter 5, Part A, Section 106(3) of the 2013 Constitution and on the advice of the Prime Minister following consultation by the Prime Minister with the Attorney-General, the President appointed Justice Temo as the Acting Chief Justice of Fiji.

Justice Temo has held a variety of positions within the judiciary during the last 10 years and five months, including Puisne Judge of the High Court of Fiji in 2009.

He served as Chief Magistrate of the Magistrate Courts of the Republic of Fiji from 1998 to June 2001.

In addition, he held the post of Head Magistrate of the Magistrate Courts from June 16, 1998, to June 15, 2001.

In 1980, Justice Temo graduated from Victoria University of Wellington with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Political Science.

After graduating from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, with a Bachelor of Arts degree with honours in Political Science, he went on to achieve a Bachelor of Law degree from Auckland University in 1981.

In 1986, Justice Temo attained a Bachelor of Law from Auckland University, New Zealand.

After obtaining his Certificate in General Jurisdiction (National Judicial College, University of Nevada, USA), he was admitted to the Fiji High Court as a Barrister and Solicitor.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Attorney-General Siromi Turaga  and members of the judiciary were present at the event.