Chief Justice Anthony Ford during his last day in office on August 13 stressed the importance of ensuring the independence of the Tongan judiciary.

He said he did not want any farewells because this was not the way he wanted to leave Tonga.

The Chief Justice's contract was not renewed despite recommendations from the Judicial Services Commission last year.

Senior counsel, including the former Attorney General and Minister of Justice 'Alisi Taumoepeau, Solicitor General 'Aminiasi Kefu and Masao Paasi; and the Supreme Court staff, including Chief Registrar Manako Vi, Assistant Registrar Sione Taione and staff, posed for photos with Chief Justice Ford before he left.

Emotional

Earlier, the Solicitor General and Crown counsel presented Chief Justice Ford with a gift, in the privacy of his office.

'Aminiasi in an emotional farewell thanked the Chief Justice for all he had done in helping with the development of the judiciary in Tonga.

Chief Justice Ford was expected to leave Tonga for New Zealand with his wife, Valda on August 14.