$29m Ba Court Complex Now Open

The opening of the $29 million state-of-the-art Ba Court complex yesterday marked another milestone for the judiciary in decentralising its services to the grassroots level.

The complex, opened by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, highlights the Government’s commitment to enhancing respect for the rule of law and ensuring meaningful access to justice for all.

“All citizens have, under the law, the right to seek justice,” Mr Rabuka said.

“The celebration for the new Ba facility is another milestone achievement. It is equipped with modern facilities and helps with the workload of the Ba Court,” he said.

“I commend the visionary leadership of the Acting Chief Justice (Honorable Justice Salesi Temo) for the establishment of a High Court in this facility as this means litigants will not have to travel to Lautoka for High Court matters.”

The jurisdiction of the new complex covers the towns of Ba, Tavua and Rakiraki including the interior of Bukuya, Magodro, Nadarivatu and the interior of Ra Province.

“The Coalition Government is committed to enhancing the rule of law improving access to justice and ensuring meaningful access to that justice.

“All citizens under the law have the right to seek justice,” Mr Rabuka said.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka tours the Ba High Court complex on October 30, 2024.

“This right does not count much if it is not exercised.”

The event was attended by senior members of the judiciary, cabinet ministers and invited dignitaries.

The new Ba High Court will now preside on appeals for the Central Agricultural Tribunal, Civil, Criminal Matters and Family Court appeals.

Mr Rabuka also praised the judiciary for its progressive improvements in fulfilling its constitutional mandate and delivering justice to the people.

“It is only through our united efforts that we will drive sustainable development forward and realise the prosperous Fiji we aspire to achieve,” he added.

“Together, let us commit to building a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.”

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