The Abidjan Court of Appeal held its solemn opening session for the 2026-2027 judicial year on November 3, 2026. The ceremony, presided over by Court of Appeal President Dembélé Tahirou, saw 27 new magistrates take their oath of office. These magistrates, part of the 2023 promotion from the National Judicial Training Institute (INFJ), will serve in various jurisdictions across the country. The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Director of Cabinet of the Minister of Justice and Human Rights, representing Minister Jean Sansan Kambilé.
The swearing-in ceremony marked the official entry of the new magistrates into Côte d'Ivoire's judicial family. With their right hand raised, each magistrate solemnly pledged to fulfill their duties faithfully and with integrity. The new magistrates will serve in different jurisdictions nationwide, upholding the principles of justice and integrity. Court of Appeal President Dembélé Tahirou emphasized the significance of their commitment, stating that their oath-taking is not just a formality but a permanent engagement to serve the nation and its people.
Prosecutor General Sori Nayé Henriette delivered an address during the ceremony, highlighting the challenges faced by the judicial system. She paid tribute to magistrates, lawyers, and other judicial officials who passed away during the previous judicial year. The Prosecutor General expressed concern over prolonged detention of individuals without justification and urged magistrates to ensure respect for the rights of citizens. She also emphasized the need for timely processing of judicial procedures to maintain public trust in the institution.
Prosecutor General Sori Nayé Henriette commended the government's efforts in removing Côte d'Ivoire from the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). She praised the reforms implemented to combat financial crime, money laundering, and terrorist financing, highlighting the crucial role played by the Ivoirian judicial system. The Prosecutor General offered valuable advice to the new magistrates, stressing the importance of probity, integrity, and loyalty in their professional careers.
Court of Appeal President Dembélé Tahirou reviewed the performances of the judicial system during the 2025-2026 judicial year, noting a significant increase in judicial activity. He reported that the Abidjan Court of Appeal rendered 7,792 decisions in all areas, representing a 16.16% increase compared to the previous year. The President acknowledged the efforts of all judicial actors and encouraged the new magistrates to uphold the values of integrity and responsibility.
President Dembélé Tahirou emphasized that the oath taken by the new magistrates is a solemn commitment to serve the nation and its people. He urged them to translate their engagement into their behavior and decisions, upholding the principles of justice and integrity. The President also highlighted the challenges facing the judicial system, including the need for accelerated processing of procedures and improved access to impartial justice.
The swearing-in of the 27 new magistrates marks a significant development in Côte d'Ivoire's judicial system. The new magistrates will play a crucial role in addressing the challenges facing the system, including the need for timely and fair justice. As they begin their careers, they will be expected to uphold the principles of integrity, responsibility, and respect for the rights of citizens.
Key points
- - 27 new magistrates were sworn in at the Abidjan Court of Appeal on November 3, 2026. - The new magistrates will serve in various jurisdictions across Côte d'Ivoire, upholding the principles of justice and integrity. - The Abidjan Court of Appeal rendered 7,792 decisions in all areas during the 2025-2026 judicial year, representing a 16.16% increase compared to the previous year.
