Forces urged to unite in upholding law

By HEZRON KISING
THE judiciary, legal fraternity, police and
Correctional Services are considered inseparable in upholding the law and each organisation has its clear and distinct responsibility in the pursuit of upholding the rule of law, a senior judge says.
National and Supreme Court judge Justice Jacinta Murray made the remarks during the opening of the legal year in Lae, under the theme “Putting our house in order first through discipline”.
Judge Murray said it was, therefore, an opportune moment for all, not just judges and magistrates but lawyers as well as all other persons, whose roles involved administration of justices in general, to reflect, self-assess and recommit in their respective roles for another year.
“The challenge is now upon us as institutions, and as individuals,” she said.
“We should take responsibility for putting our house in order.
“This should be achieved through discipline.
“We exercise discipline in the discharge of our duties, discipline in the conduct of our professional lives, discipline towards those whom we serve, and, above all, we exercise discipline and self-respect towards the institutions that we all have sworn to uphold and protect.
“I remind us that we are not immune from public scrutiny and criticism from the people and country we serve.
“But it should not discourage us from finding a way to improve to be better in our respective roles and responsibilities, and we can do so by exercising discipline.
“The emphasis on discipline as a vital tool to put our house in order should not be taken lightly.
“The need to take stock of recalcitrant behaviour through discipline is needed now more than ever.”