By Tupou Vaipulu Jr.

Tonga's Lord Chief Justice, Michael H. Whitten KC, had his last sitting in the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court today and was farewelled in a ceremony held at the court.

He has served four years in Tonga, since 2 September 2019, and leaves at the conclusion of his contract.

The Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala and Princess Sinaitakala attended the farewell ceremony, along with the Minister of Justice, Hon. Samiu Vaipulu, law practitioners and other officials.

Guest speakers, Solicitor General , Sione Sisifā; Director of Public Prosecution, James Lutui; the Secretary for the Tonga Law Society, Ane Mailangi; and the Registrar of the Supreme Court, Tevita Fukofuka; all acknowledged Lord Chief Justice Whitten’s service and dedication to enhance Tonga’s judiciary and legal services.

They said that the Chief Justice had contributed to improving and empowering the legal profession, “never to be complacent with the norm,” and ensured that there was an ever-evolving and enabling environment.

They also shared some heartfelt and personal memories with the Lord Chief Justice, in an emotional farewell.

Ane Mailangi said, “We all have witnessed first-hand His Honour’s leadership of the Judiciary during a period of unprecedented difficulties and challenges in the past two years. His Honour has responded to these difficulties and challenges with ease, composure and understanding.”

LCJ Whitten will return to his home in Australia.