Guyanese legal scholar and human rights advocate, Justice Christopher Arif Bulkan, was on Wednesday sworn in as a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), becoming the third Guyanese to serve on the court in its 20-year history.He took his oath of office before President Dr Irfaan Ali at his Shiv Chnaderpaul Drive, Georgetown office on Wednesday in the presence of CCJ President, Justice Winston Anderson.Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Justice Anderson lauded Justice Bulkan’s distinguished career and his deep-rooted commitment to justice and equality.“Attorney, academic, author, international law expert, advocate and judge; these are just a few of the many distinguished roles of which Dr Arif Bulkan is known and respected throughout the legal profession,” Justice Anderson said.Guyanese legal scholar and human rights advocate, Justice Christopher Arif Bulkan (fifth from right) was on Wednesday sworn in as a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ)He added that Bulkan’s record reflects “a deep commitment and unwavering dedication to social justice, equality and the rule of law.”“These attributes, alongside his wisdom, depth of knowledge and wealth of experience, will serve him in good stead as he embarks in service at the highest judicial level in our region,” Justice Anderson said.The CCJ President noted that Justice Bulkan’s extensive work in the areas of human rights, indigenous rights and environmental law has earned him respect across the region.In his remarks, Justice Bulkan described his appointment as “deeply meaningful,” not because of personal accomplishment, but because of what the CCJ represents in the region’s journey of decolonisation and integration.Guyanese legal scholar and human rights advocate, Justice Christopher Arif Bulkan (right) was on Wednesday sworn in as a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ)“For me it is a deep honour to be joining this court. At the same time, the journey towards full independence is not over,” he said.Justice Bulkan highlighted that the CCJ has remained steadfast in upholding democratic values and the rule of law.“The CCJ has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the promotion of human rights. It has been expansive in its interpretative techniques, paying attention to history and context and maintaining regard for international norms,” he said.Calling on Caribbean nations yet to accede fully to the CCJ to do so, Justice Bulkan said the court’s regional significance goes beyond its judicial functions.“Accession to the CCJ is thus a regional imperative not just for the practical benefits though that’s important but also because of what it means for our self-determination in the region.“As the court continues to fashion a true Caribbean jurisprudence mindful of our shared values and responsive to our needs, hopefully the day will soon come when there will be complete accession by all,” Justice Bulkan said.He pledged to carry out his duties with the highest standards of professionalism.“Be assured that I am committed to performing my functions with competence, efficiency and unwavering integrity,” Justice Bulkan affirmed.Delivering the feature address, President Dr. Irfaan Ali hailed Justice Bulkan’s appointment as both a personal triumph and a national honour.Guyanese legal scholar and human rights advocate, Justice Christopher Arif Bulkan, was on Wednesday sworn in as a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ)“Guyana celebrates Justice Bulkan today. We are certain that he will bring to the court the same clarity of thought, depth of analysis and balance of judgment that have characterized his distinguished career,” he said.President Ali reaffirmed Guyana’s support for the CCJ as a symbol of Caribbean unity and independence.“The CCJ stands as one of the finest achievements of the Caribbean Community. It represents a proud creation of our collective decision, designed and built to serve the needs of our own society.“The CCJ is more than a court. It is a declaration of confidence in ourselves. It symbolizes the maturity of our independence and the depth of our capacity to administer justice according to our own laws,” President Ali said.This month marks 35 years since Justice Bulkan was called to the bar. He is the third Guyanese to be serve as a Judge at the region’s highest court.The post ‘A personal triumph & national honour’ – Justice Arif Bulkan sworn in as CCJ Judge appeared first on News Room Guyana.