The Attorney-General & Minister for Justice is deeply saddened to hear about the passing away of Sir Moti Tikaram, one of Fiji's most eminent judges and Statesmen.
Sir Moti served Fiji as a barrister, magistrate, judge and ombudsman with utmost dedication, sincerity and honour. Indeed, he was the first local to be appointed as a magistrate in 1959, and as a High Court Judge in 1967.
Following independence in 1970, Sir Moti was appointed as Fiji's first ombudsman in 1972, a position in which he served the country for 15 years. In 1980, he was knighted for his exemplary contribution to public life in Fiji.
He was appointed as Justice of Appeal in the Fiji Court of Appeal in 1988, and subsequently, went on to become the President of the Fiji Court of Appeal in 1994. In 2000, he was appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court until his retirement in March 2002.
Sir Moti served on numerous boards and committees, including many sporting, social and educational organisations. Indeed, he was a keen sportsman and regularly enjoyed playing lawn tennis.
The Fijian Government extends its sincere condolences to Sir Moti's family.
His contribution to the development of jurisprudence in Fiji will surely be remembered, and his law-making decisions will no doubt continue to be cited in the courtrooms throughout Fiji for many years to come.