A group of Tonga’s legal professionals have launched a petition calling for the removal of the newly appointed Chief Justice, Welshman Malcolm Bishop.
Some members of the Tonga Law Society argue the appointment is inappropriate. Bishop was appointed only six days ago by Tonga’s Privy Council.
Tonga Law Society president Lopeti Senituli confirmed the opposition to Bishop’s appointment.
“The appointment has taken place… some members of the law society are against,” Senituli said. “There are at least two members that have signed a petition.”
Henry ‘Aho, former president of Tonga’s Leiti’s Association, criticised the petition.
“I think these objections are themselves objectionable,” ‘Aho said.
“Their [legal practitioners’] sexual orientation has no bearing on their ability to execute their duties.”
The petition has raised questions about the criteria used in judicial appointments and the role of personal factors in assessing an individual’s suitability for top office. As the debate continues, the future of the Chief Justice position in Tonga remains uncertain.