Two magistrates sworn in at State House

The administration of justice was strengthened yesterday with the swearing-in of two magistrates by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu at State House.

Manorama Kamini Devi and Lisiate Fotofili took their Oaths of Office before the President, marking their formal appointment to the Magistracy in accordance with constitutional requirements.

The ceremony was witnessed by Chief Justice Justice Salesi Temo, Chief Registrar Tomasi Bainivalu and Acting Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola.

Devi brings extensive experience within the Judiciary, particularly in family law and court administration. She most recently served as Registrar of the Family Court, having previously held senior roles as Acting Registrar and Assistant Registrar for more than eight years.

Her earlier roles include serving as Legal Research Assistant to the Chief Justice and Senior Court Officer at the Principal Probate Registry. She holds a Bachelor of Education, Bachelor of Laws, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice.

Fotofili returns to the Magistracy with more than two decades of courtroom and leadership experience. He most recently served with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, attached to the Serious Fraud Division, where he handled civil forfeiture matters under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Earlier this year, he also served as Acting Deputy Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption.

Fotofili previously served as a Resident Magistrate from 2018 to 2025, presiding over criminal, civil and family matters in Rakiraki, Tavua and Nasinu.

His legal career began with the ODPP in 2007, and includes senior roles in the Serious Crimes Division and the Northern Division. He holds a Bachelor of Laws, Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Corruption Studies from the University of Hong Kong.

The Judiciary said the appointments reflect its continued efforts to strengthen judicial capacity and uphold the rule of law across Fiji.