In a historic ceremony this morning, The Hon. Justice Paul Garlick KC officially took his oath as the newest Judge of the Supreme Court of the Kingdom of Tonga, marking a new chapter in the nation’s judiciary.
The swearing-in took place in Cabinet, presided over by His Majesty’s Government and witnessed by Acting Prime Minister Dr Taniela Likuohihifo Fusimalohi, alongside senior members of Cabinet.
Justice Garlick’s appointment follows the recent conclusion of former Justice Nicholas Cato’s term, ensuring continuity in Tonga’s highest court.
Justice Garlick, a King’s Counsel (KC), brings decades of legal expertise to Tonga’s judiciary.
With a distinguished background in common law jurisdictions, including senior judicial and advisory roles, his appointment is expected to further strengthen the rule of law in the Kingdom.
The Acting Prime Minister extended “heartfelt congratulations” to Justice Garlick, stating:
“We are confident that his vast experience and unwavering commitment to justice will greatly benefit Tonga’s legal system and uphold the rights of our people.”
Justice Garlick’s appointment comes at a critical time for Tonga’s legal system, which faces mounting challenges, including a worsening drug epidemic marked by surging methamphetamine (“ice”) and cannabis-related arrests that are straining law enforcement capabilities.
As Kaniva News reported previously, the courts, already understaffed and overburdened, are grappling with severe case backlogs.
This leads to prolonged pretrial detention for many detainees, as hearings face significant delays. Some cases reportedly take years to resolve.
These systemic issues have sparked growing calls for judicial reform, with demands for expedited trials and increased resources for legal aid. Legal experts previously warned that without urgent action, these delays could further erode public trust in Tonga’s justice system.
With Justice Garlick now formally instated, the Supreme Court is expected to resume its full caseload, including pending constitutional matters and high-profile cases.
The authority to select and appoint judges lies with the King and his Judicial Appointment Panel.
