Two judges from Zambia, Dominic Sichinga and Nicola Sharpe Phiri, have landed top jobs at the Seychelles Court of Appeal.
They were sworn in yesterday morning by President Wavel Ramkalawan.
During the swearing-in ceremony, the newly appointed justices took the Oath of Allegiance to the Constitution and the Judicial Oath, in the presence of high-ranking officials, including Vice President Ahmed Afif, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Gervais Henri, President of the Court of Appeal Justice Anthony Fernando, Chief Justice Ronny Govinden, Brigadier Michael Rosette, members of the Constitutional Appointments Authority, other Justices of the Court of Appeal, and distinguished guests.
In his address, President Ramkalawan congratulated the justices and expressed his confidence that their extensive experience and expertise would enhance the Seychelles Judiciary’s commitment to justice.
A non-residential judge refers to a judge who does not hold a permanent position in a specific court, instead serving on a part-time or temporary basis.
The judge may be appointed to hear cases across various jurisdictions as required, often assisting in managing caseloads or offering expertise in specific legal areas.
Justice Sichinga brings over 20 years of legal experience to his new position. His career highlights include serving as Solicitor General of Zambia, working as a Legal Consultant for the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and presiding over the Kabwe High Court in Zambia. He has also served as a Judge of the Appeal Court of Zambia. Internationally, Justice Sichinga has held positions in the United Kingdom as a Nascent Advocate with Budd Martin Burrett, in the United States as a Child Support Officer with the Texas Attorney General’s Office, and as an Administrative Officer with the Kosovo Law Enforcement Project. His areas of expertise include human rights law, constitutional law, and general civil law.
Justice Sharpe-Phiri brings 30 years of legal expertise to her new role. She began her career with 20 years in private practice before being appointed as a High Court Judge in Lusaka, where she led the Family and Children’s Court for six years. She was subsequently elevated to the Court of Appeal in April 2021.
Currently, she serves as Chairperson of the Small Claims Court of Zambia and is well-known for her expertise in family law, constitutional law, banking and corporate law, and arbitration. Her experience also includes handling both civil and criminal appeals.
These appointments highlight the Seychelles judiciary’s commitment to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law.
