By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News
The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on Monday hosted a Special Sitting to commemorate the appointment of the Honourable Justice Winston Anderson as the Court’s fourth President, marking a significant milestone in Caribbean legal history.
The ceremony, attended by distinguished members of the regional judiciary, celebrated Justice Anderson’s decades-long contribution to law, justice, and Caribbean integration.
Delivering remarks, CCJ Judge, Justice Maureen Ragnauth-Lee, described Anderson’s appointment as historic, noting that his career embodies unwavering dedication to the rule of law, the protection of human rights, and the advancement of accessible justice throughout the Caribbean.
“Your colleagues are confident that you will lead the Court with wisdom, courage, and compassion. Under your stewardship, we are certain that the CCJ will continue to serve as a beacon of hope, a pillar of integrity, and a steadfast guardian of the rights and dignity of our people,” Justice Ragnauth-Lee said.
Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary of Guyana, Justice Roxane George, also delivered remarks, praising Justice Anderson’s depth of experience as both a lecturer and scholar.
“His mission is to ensure that the legal profession of the Caribbean is well-informed and educated, especially on emerging legal issues,” Chancellor George said.
She further lauded him as “a shining example of why we must have confidence in our own,” underscoring the caliber of intellectual and judicial leadership produced within the region.
In his inaugural address as CCJ President, Justice Winston Anderson reaffirmed the Court’s commitment to strengthening regional jurisprudence and expanding access to justice.
“The Court has delivered a total of 347 decisions—comprising 40 in the regional jurisdiction, including one advisory opinion, and 307 decisions in the appellate jurisdiction,” he disclosed.
Justice Anderson emphasized that while the CCJ’s caseload has been relatively modest, its decisions have significantly influenced how Caribbean people understand justice, rights, and identity.
“A sense of belonging through our community governed by law has begun to take shape in our region,” he stated.
The newly appointed President noted that the establishment of the CCJ has greatly expanded access to final appellate justice for Caribbean citizens and continues to serve as a symbol of legal sovereignty and unity within the region.
The Special Sitting concluded with high commendation for Justice Anderson’s leadership and a reaffirmation of the CCJ’s mission to uphold fairness, integrity, and the rule of law across the Caribbean.
