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Justice of Appeal Ronnie Boodoosingh has been appointed TT’s ninth Chief Justice, succeeding Ivor Archie, who officially retired on October 22. Boodoosingh was sworn in by acting President Wade Mark the same day. The Office of the President confirmed that the appointment process was conducted in accordance with Section 102 of the Constitution, which requires the President to appoint the Chief Justice after consultation with the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition.

Although not unexpected, Archie’s announcement of his immediate retirement came as a shock to the legal and judicial fraternity because of its timing.

In September, Archie announced his impending retirement from the judiciary after almost 18 years. On October 21, he said, “That time has arrived…” Archie said he informed acting President Wade Mark of his retirement effective October 22. President Christine Kangaloo left for vacation on October 18 and is expected to return at the end of the month, so the task of appointing a new chief justice fell to the acting president.