Justice Rafiq Khan joins Court of Appeal

Justice Khan taking his Oath of Office before President Ali

Justice Rafiq Khan on Tuesday took the Oath of Office as a Justice of the Court of Appeal, sworn in by President Dr. Irfaan Ali at State House, in the presence of family members and senior government and judicial officials.

Those in attendance included Prime Minister Brigadier retired Mark Phillips, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire, and acting Chief Justice Justice Navendra Singh.

President Ali welcomed the appointment, saying Justice Khan’s elevation would strengthen the Court and enhance the delivery of justice.

“The elevation of Mr Rafiq  Khan to this bench is first and foremost a recognition of his considerable judicial experience, profound legal knowledge, and respected integrity. His distinguished career has equipped him with wisdom, temperament, and insight essential for the solemn responsibilities… The expansion of the course complement exemplified by his appointment serves a dual imperative. It secures the invaluable asset of a jurist of his caliber while simultaneously addressing the pressing need for judicial efficiency,” he noted.

This enhanced capability, the President stressed, is a vital means to reinforce the legitimacy of the state and fulfill its paramount duty to provide fair, principled, and accessible justice for all citizens.

The President said Justice Khan’s addition would boost the court’s deliberative capacity, ease the appellate caseload, and support faster hearings and rulings.

“Justice Khan, you assume your responsibility at the heart of this essential enterprise. It is expected that in your work as a justice of the Court of Appeal, you will uphold the Constitution, administer justice without fear or favour, and contribute to the wise and efficient functioning of this critical court. And based on your track record, we have no doubt that you will do just this. It is also expected that through your appointment, you will bring diligence, integrity, and intellectual rigor to your role. And again, based on everything we know about you, this should be a natural transition,” Dr Ali noted.

Justice Khan’s appointment follows a recommendation from the Judicial Service Commission, which in May named seven judges to the Court of Appeal,the largest single intake in the Court’s history.

Although he was unable to take the oath at that time, Justice Khan formally assumed office today.