The Judiciary of Seychelles paid tribute to Justice Anthony Fernando during a special ceremonial sitting marking his retirement after an exceptional legal career spanning more than 40 years, including 17 years on the Bench.
Held before the Court of Appeal, the ceremony brought together members of the Judiciary, the legal profession, family and friends to honour a jurist whose contributions have helped shape Seychelles’ legal landscape over the past three decades.
Delivering an emotional farewell address, Justice Fernando reflected on a career dedicated to public service, beginning with his appointment as Senior State Counsel in 1991. He recounted his progression through the legal service, serving as Principal State Counsel, Attorney General for a decade, Judge of the Court of Appeal from 2009, and ultimately as President of the Court of Appeal since June 2020.
Reflecting on the different administrations under which he served, Justice Fernando remarked that despite changes in political leadership, every President had respected the independence of the Judiciary, allowing him to carry out his duties “with impartiality, with integrity, and with absolute independence.”
He also reflected on the unique responsibilities of serving as Attorney General, describing the office as one that demands a careful balance between advising Government, leading prosecutions and safeguarding the public interest and the rule of law.
Looking back on his tenure as President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Fernando spoke proudly of one of the Judiciary’s most significant achievements. Upon assuming office in 2020, the Court faced a backlog of more than 200 pending appeals. Through sustained commitment and teamwork, the Court has since disposed of 766 appeal cases, significantly improving the efficiency of the appellate system.
Justice Fernando paid heartfelt tribute to the many people who had supported him throughout his journey. He expressed his sincere appreciation to his judicial colleagues, members of the legal profession and the administrative staff of the Judiciary, acknowledging their collective contribution to the institution’s success.
In a touching moment that resonated throughout the courtroom, Justice Fernando recognised the Judiciary’s senior management team, describing them as “the engine of this institution. Without you, nothing moves.”
His most emotional tribute, however, was reserved for his wife, who was seated in the front row throughout the ceremony. Turning to her, he simply said, “None of this would be possible without you,” drawing visible emotion from those in attendance.
Leading the tributes, Chief Justice Ronny Govinden joined the Bench to honour Justice Fernando’s distinguished career and lasting contribution to the administration of justice in Seychelles. The Chief Justice thanked him for his unwavering commitment to judicial independence, professionalism and public service, wishing him a fulfilling retirement. In lighter remarks, he humorously expressed the hope that Justice Fernando would not be kept too busy in retirement, noting that retired judges often remain a valuable source of wisdom and experience for the legal profession.
Tributes were also delivered by Chairperson of the Bar Association, Divino Sabino, and senior attorney Bernard Georges, both of whom reflected on Justice Fernando’s influence on the legal profession. They spoke of appearing before him in court over the years, recalling the professional exchanges that shaped their own development as advocates and thanking him for his fairness, wisdom and service to the nation.
The retirement celebrations began over the weekend, when the Judiciary’s Senior Management hosted a farewell dinner in Justice Fernando’s honour, attended by the Supreme Court Judges and members of the Judiciary, providing colleagues with an opportunity to celebrate his remarkable career in a more personal setting.
As Justice Anthony Fernando steps away from the Bench, he leaves behind an enduring legacy of judicial independence, integrity and public service. His leadership, commitment to the rule of law and dedication to strengthening the administration of justice have left an indelible mark on the Judiciary of Seychelles and the country’s legal profession.
The Judiciary of Seychelles extends its sincere gratitude to Justice Fernando for his outstanding service and wishes him every happiness, good health and fulfilment in his well-earned retirement.
Justice Anthony Fernando’s full speech can be read here.