Judicial Leaders Convene in Banjul for Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association Conference
By Makutu Manneh
Judicial leaders from across the Commonwealth have convened in Banjul for the Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association (CMJA) Conference, taking place at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Bijilo.
This year’s conference, themed “Innovations in Judicial Practice: Embracing Change for a Better Future,” brings together senior judges, magistrates, and legal scholars to examine critical issues of justice, governance, and institutional collaboration. The gathering also serves as a platform for sharing best practices, strengthening the rule of law, and addressing common challenges facing judiciaries across the Commonwealth.
In his opening address, President Adama Barrow underscored The Gambia’s ongoing judicial reforms and transitional justice programme, noting progress in advancing the rule of law, governance, and protection of rights. He stressed that no nation can meet today’s judicial challenges in isolation, emphasizing cooperation, dialogue, and solidarity as essential to building stronger justice systems.
“The occasion holds special significance for The Gambia, as we continue our judiciary reforms to modernize our court systems, strengthen judicial independence, and expand access to justice for all,” President Barrow said.
“The reforms reflect our commitment to constitutionalism, good governance, and the rule of law. Hosting this conference demonstrates our willingness to showcase our progress and desire to learn from the collective wisdom of the Commonwealth.”
CMJA President Lynne Leitch, in her remarks, pointed to the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence in judicial practice. While acknowledging its potential to support judges, she stressed that AI cannot replace judicial authority.
Leitch also highlighted broader challenges confronting courts across the Commonwealth, including shortages of judicial officers and courtrooms, rising caseloads, and increasing demands for efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.
“Judges will do their part, I am sure, and embrace innovation and change for a better future, but as the guidelines I mentioned noted, there is a diligent balance between embracing innovation and maintaining established values and fundamental principles, which must not be distorted due to the pressures of modernization,” she said.
Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow, in his address, underscored that in a world grappling with conflict, poverty, and widespread human rights violations, the Commonwealth remains a beacon of hope for a better future. He reaffirmed the association’s enduring commitment to democratic governance, human rights, the rule of law, and the independence of the judiciary.
Expressing optimism about the conference, Chief Justice Jallow said he looked forward to constructive outcomes and meaningful exchanges on the theme and its many dimensions.
“National policy makers need to recognize that national development planning cannot ignore the need for justice and must integrate these needs into such planning. The public investment in justice is a necessity, and it has social and economic dividends for any nation and the entire community in terms of peace and creation of the right environment for progress,” he said.
He further urged judicial officers to embrace the opportunities of modern life, using innovation to strengthen efficiency and effectiveness while remaining anchored to the judiciary’s core mission of delivering timely and quality justice.
The conference is also examining how emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud solutions, and virtual platforms—can be leveraged to enhance judicial systems and expand access to justice across the Commonwealth.