NATIONAL watchdog, the Ombudsman Commission yesterday farewelled counsel Nemo Yalo who will be taking up a new posting as acting judge of the National Court.
The farewell was similar to two others held in the past to release now judges Justices Gibbs Salika and David Cannings. Both were former counsel to the Ombudsman Commission.
Mr Yalo joined the Ombudsman Commission in 2001 as legal officer and was promoted to counsel in 2004 until presently when he was accepted to be a judge of the high courts.
Chief Ombudsman Illa Geno said the outgoing counsel was diligent in knowing the constitutional laws and had been working on a number of leadership cases since 2004.
Mr Geno said Mr Yalo had proved himself in court with his knowledge and skill in interpreting constitutional laws.
He said Mr Yalo came at a time when the departure of Justice Cannings left a big vacuum.
He said Mr Yalo did his best to fill in the shoes of Justice Cannings at the Ombudsman Commission and was a competent officer.
Mr Yalo thanked all his colleagues at the Ombudsman Commission and inspired them not to lose focus on their work.
“This organisation is bigger than any individual. Do not feel threatened and intimidated. The country is pinning its hopes on the commission and the judiciary. Stand up for what is right and give your job all you got,” he said.
Mr Yalo said criticisms could be made but one had to consider the mere fact of being mortal and work within the standing orders to produce results.