President Wavel Ramkalawan officiated the swearing-in ceremony of Justice Dominic Sichinga and Justice Nicola Sharpe-Phiri as Non-Residential Justices of Appeal. The event, held this morning at State House, followed recommendations by the Constitutional Appointments Authority.

During the ceremony, the newly appointed Justices took the Oath of Allegiance to the Constitution and the Judicial Oath, witnessed by 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 remarks, President Ramkalawan extended his congratulations and expressed confidence that the extensive experience and expertise of the Justices would further bolster the Seychelles Judiciary's pursuit of justice.

Justice Dominic Sichinga brings over two decades of legal experience to the bench. His career highlights include serving as Solicitor General of Zambia, Legal Consultant at 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 roles 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 Nicola Sharpe-Phiri brings 30 years of legal acumen to her new role. Her career began with 20 years in private practice before her appointment as a High Court Judge in Lusaka, where she led the Family and Children’s Court for six years. She was later elevated to the Court of Appeal in April 2021. Currently serving as Chairperson of the Small Claims Court of Zambia, Justice Sharpe-Phiri is renowned for her proficiency in family law, constitutional law, banking and corporate law, and arbitration. Her experience also encompasses both civil and criminal appeals.

The appointments underscore the Seychelles Judiciary's dedication to upholding the principles of justice and rule of law.