Three New Resident Magistrates Sworn In

Fiji’s judiciary has welcomed three new Resident Magistrates—Mr. Panapasa Tawake, Ms. Vinaina Diroiroi, and Ms. Sofina Ali—who were officially sworn in by the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, at State House.

Each magistrate took the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath for the Due Execution of Judicial Office in the presence of Chief Justice Salesi Temo, Chief Registrar Tomasi Bainivalu, and Acting Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola.

Mr. Tawake, a USP law graduate, brings legal experience from the Legal Aid Commission and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. He has also served in international peacekeeping in Sinai, Egypt, and holds multiple international legal certifications.

Ms. Diroiroi, also a USP graduate, previously served at the Legal Aid Commission and more recently at Fiji Ports Corporation. She holds a Master’s in International Relations and a Diploma in Legislative Drafting.

Ms. Ali joins with 14 years of legal experience, including her role as Principal Legal Officer at the Attorney-General’s Office and Acting Director of the Fiji Intellectual Property Office.

She holds a Master’s in Intellectual Property from Singapore and a law degree from the University of Fiji.