The Papua New Guinea Centre for Judicial Excellence (PNGCJE) and Commonwealth Secretariat held a two-day symposium on the Latimer House Principles on June 19-20, 2025. The Symposium for Judges from the National and Supreme Courts of Papua New Guinea addressed the separation of powers doctrine, independence of the Judiciary, accountability mechanisms, ethical governance and supporting the rule of law.

Delivering the Welcome remarks, Hon. Justice John Carey, PNGCJE Judge Administrator, spoke of the significance of the event, highlighting its role as an essential platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas among judicial colleagues. He noted, “This symposium reflects our shared commitment to advancing judicial education throughout the Pacific region and the wider Commonwealth. By partnering with the Commonwealth Secretariat, we are reinforcing our dedication to strengthening good governance, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring judicial independence.”

He also emphasized the critical importance of self-reflection on the part of the judiciary to ensure the ongoing adherence to the Latimer House Principles. These principles, focused on fostering transparency, accountability, and balance between the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, are integral to maintaining a healthy democracy.

Dr. Elizabeth Macharia, Commonwealth Head of Rule of Law, also addressed the symposium, underscoring the significance of the Latimer House Principles in advancing democratic values.  She indicated the importance of strengthening judicial cooperation across the Commonwealth, noting that the exchange of ideas and best practices, especially in regional contexts contributes significantly to the overall improvement of judicial systems worldwide.

Hon. Justice David Cannings CBE addressing the symposium on behalf of the Chief Justice Sir Gibuma Gibbs Salika, GCL, KBE, CSM, OBE further reaffirmed the importance of the Latimer House Principles. He stated that principles, adopted in 2003 after extensive collaboration among Commonwealth legal and parliamentary bodies, serve as the cornerstone for ensuring the separation of powers, mutual respect, and cooperation between the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary.

Justice Cannings acknowledged Papua New Guinea’s strong constitutional framework that guarantees an independent judiciary, free and fair elections, and the protection of human rights. He also highlighted the continuing need for reflection on how the judiciary can adapt to the evolving needs of democratic societies. “This symposium is a space for open dialogue and introspection,” he said. “It is an opportunity for us to discuss critical issues such as improving access to justice, ensuring socially responsive judgments, and strengthening judicial ethics in the context of a rapidly changing global landscape.”

The successful two-day symposium on the Latimer House Principles, was led by Hon. Justice Oagile Key Dingake, Hon. Justice Justice Vergil Narakobi and Hon. Justice John Carey. The expertise and leadership of all of the Judges ensured a comprehensive and engaging dialogue, focusing on how the Latimer House Principles can be further integrated into judicial practices across the Pacific region.