Dili, April 29 (AseanAll)  — On April 29, 2025,  the President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, J. Ramos-Horta, presided over the inauguration ceremony of the new President of Timor-Leste’s Court of Appeal, Afonso Carmona, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s judicial history.

During the ceremony, which was attended by high officials from the National Parliament, Government, Justice system, and Diplomatic Corps, Ramos-Horta paid tribute to the Court’s leaders throughout the post-independence period, including Dr. Cláudio de Jesus Ximenes (2003-2014), Dr. Guilhermino da Silva (2014-2017), Dr. Maria Natércia Gusmão Pereira, and the outgoing president, Dr. Deolindo dos Santos.

The President emphasized the Court’s vital role in shaping democracy, stating that it strengthens public confidence in institutions and ensures respect for constitutional principles. He also expressed his desire to see the installation of Timor-Leste’s Supreme Court of Justice completed before the end of his mandate, noting the current overload on the Court of Appeal, which functions as the country’s de facto Supreme Court.

The newly appointed President of the Court of Appeal, Afonso Carmona, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him, acknowledging the significant responsibility of leading Timor-Leste’s highest judicial body. He committed to upholding the principles of independence, transparency, and access to justice, while building upon the achievements of his predecessors.

In his acceptance speech, the new Court President emphasized that the rule of law constitutes the foundation of the nation’s future and committed to improving the efficiency of the courts, while simultaneously maintaining a jurisprudence that honors both the constitution and Timor-Leste’s unique national identity. This appointment comes at a critical moment as the young democracy continues to strengthen its institutions following independence in 2002.