Hong Kong's judicial system is set to enter a new era, with its first new chief justice since the handover and three new non-permanent judges of the Court of Final Appeal.
It was announced yesterday that, as expected, Geoffrey Ma Tao-li, chief judge of the High Court, would take over as chief justice on the retirement of Andrew Li Kwok-nang.
Ma's selection was widely welcomed by the legal community. Yesterday's appointments mark the first stage in an overhaul of the city's roster of judges, with several senior ones nearing retirement age.
The three judges named to the Court of Final Appeal were Mr Justice Robert Tang Ching, Mr Justice Frank Stock and Mr Justice Michael Hartmann, all from the Court of Appeal.
The four appointments, recommended by the Judicial Officers Recommendation Commission, have been accepted by Chief Executive Donald Tsang Yam-kuen. They are expected to take effect in September after endorsement by the Legislative Council. Lawmakers will be able to scrutinise the appointments and meet the candidates before voting.
As chief justice, Ma will preside over the highest court and hear cases with big implications. As head of the judiciary he will oversee its administration at all levels.