By: Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News|
Justice Arif Bulkan was on Thursday sworn in as a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) by President Dr. Irfaan Ali during a ceremony held at the Office of the President, marking a moment of both national pride and regional significance.
In his remarks, President Ali described the appointment as a historic and proud occasion for Guyana and the wider Caribbean, emphasizing Justice Bulkan’s distinguished record of service.
“This is an occasion of national pride and regional celebration. We are certain that he will bring to the Court the same clarity of thought, depth of analysis, and balance of judgment that have characterized his distinguished career,” President Ali said.
Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire, extended congratulations on behalf of the local judiciary, noting that Justice Bulkan’s appointment would enrich the CCJ’s jurisprudence.
“We look forward to your judgments, which will shape our jurisprudence and the future of the Court — especially at a time when the legal landscape is evolving rapidly,” she remarked.
President of the CCJ, Justice Winston Anderson, hailed Bulkan’s elevation as a moment of pride for Guyana, noting that he is now the third Guyanese to serve on the CCJ bench.
“The people of Guyana have good reason to be proud of their son and of his elevation to the CCJ,” Justice Anderson declared.
In his inaugural address, Justice Bulkan expressed deep gratitude and underscored the importance of the CCJ’s role in defending democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.
“The CCJ has consistently upheld democratic values, good governance, and the rule of law. This Court has guarded against executive overreach, been attentive to the demands of judicial independence, and has grappled with the meaning of democracy,” he stated.
Justice Bulkan’s appointment adds to Guyana’s growing legacy of judicial leadership within the Caribbean, reaffirming the nation’s contribution to the region’s highest appellate court.
