The 15th Judicial Circuit Court in River Gee County officially opened its May Term on Monday, May 18, under the newly assigned presiding judge, His Honor, Judge D. Onesimus Banwon.
Judge Banwon succeeds Her Honor, Nancy Sammy, who made history as the first female circuit judge to serve in the county.
Prior to his new assignment, Banwon served as Resident Judge of River Cess County.
He is recognized within the judiciary for his commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence and professional integrity.
The opening ceremony of the court, held on the second working Monday of May in line with judicial calendar, brought together judicial officials, legal practitioners, civil society representatives and county authorities.
The May Term will hear six criminal matters and two civil cases.
Judge Banwon urged judges and judicial personnel to uphold the ethical standards of the judiciary with honesty, neutrality, courage and fairness in the dispensation of justice.
“The court must continue to play an important role in sustaining peace and unity among our people.”
Banwon described the judiciary as the “bedrock of every civilized nation.”
Therefore, he said, it must exert impartial judgments are essential to promote peace, stability, unity and national development.
Judge Banwon also called on legal professionals to remain dedicated to their duties and encouraged jurors to listen carefully to all parties to ensure fair and uncompromised verdicts.
He commended court staff for their professionalism and urged them to maintain diligence throughout the term.
Trial judges and judicial officers present pledged their cooperation to strengthen the justice system in the county.
River Gee County Attorney, Daniel T.K. Dweh and Civil Society Organization Chairman, Abu Diallo, praised judicial workers for their commitment to preserve the county’s justice system.