GUYANA recorded a historic first on Wednesday as five Justices of Appeal were sworn in simultaneously — the largest such appointment in the nation’s history.
Describing it as a “vital step” in strengthening the administration of justice, President Dr. Irfaan Ali presided over the historic swearing-in of five Justices of Appeal.
“This event constitutes not only a significant moment in the professional lives of the appointees,” President Ali stated, “but also a vital step in strengthening the institutional framework of the administration of justice in our country.”

The appointments come at a time when the demand for efficient and timely judicial review is increasingly pressing. President Ali emphasised the critical role of the Court of Appeal in ensuring justice is administered with fairness and consistency.

“The Court of Appeal, the Court of Appeals serves its pivotal role in reviewing appeals from decisions and orders of the High Court and ensuring that the law is applied consistently, judiciously and equitably. In so doing, it contributes indispensably to the preservation of the rule of law, the protection of fundamental rights and the maintenance of constitutional order.”
The judicial Service Commission recommended seven judges to be appointed, five have now officially taken their oaths:  Justices Jo Ann Barlow, Navindra Singh, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, Nareshwhar Harnanan, and Dr Joycelin Kyte-Thomas.

At a later date Justice Damone Younge and Mr Rafiq Khan, SC will take their oaths.
The President noted that the appointment of these five individuals, made on the recommendation of the Judicial Service Commission, reflects the continuing fortification of our judicial architecture.

“Their elevation comes at a time when the demand for efficient and expeditious appellate review is greater than ever. The efficacy of any legal system is closely tied to the timeliness with which it dispenses justice. In this regard, the expansion of the compliment of the pellet judges is both timely and necessary, it will facilitate more efficient management of the pellet caseload and allow for a speedier resolution of matters, thereby enhancing public confidence in the judicial process,” the President explained.
The expanded bench is expected to improve the pace and efficiency of appellate rulings, a longstanding issue.

The Head of State was also keen to point out 60 per cent of the Judges who were sworn in on Wednesday were women.
“That’s not just progress—it’s powerfully symbolic of the role women play in shaping our future.”

President Ali further highlighted that the larger panel of appellate justices would help reduce backlogs and accelerate the delivery of decisions, thereby enhancing public trust in the judiciary.
He added: “As justices of appeal you will be called upon to be arbiters in many matters of legal significance. Your pronouncements will shape jurisprudence, guide future adjudication, and influence the manner in which justice is experienced and upheld in our republic.”