Retiring top judge defends independence of city's courts

A retiring judge of the city's highest court said yesterday that there had never been interference in the appointment of judges, amid concerns over the city's judicial independence.

Mr Justice Patrick Chan Siu-oi's remarks followed those of his colleague Mr Justice Kemal Bokhary, who retired as a permanent judge of the Court of Final Appeal on turning 65 last year.

Bokhary had warned that the rule of law was clouded by "a storm of unprecedented ferocity", suggesting that forces were trying to deprive the city of its independent judiciary.

"There is one thing I have wanted to say for a long time to those who still perceive any doubts about the independence of the judiciary," said Chan.

"Since 1995, I have been involved in the selection of judges … there has never been any interference from any quarter or person in the appointment of judges.

"All my colleagues were appointed on their own merits."

In 1997, Chan was the first University of Hong Kong law graduate to be appointed chief judge of the High Court. He was made a permanent judge of the Court of Final Appeal in 2000.