The Seychelles Court of Appeal April session has concluded with 11 cases heard. One case was adjourned. This was confirmed by the President of the Court of Appeal, Anthony Fernando in his closing remarks.
Justice Fernando said the court had scheduled 12 appeal cases. He expected all hearings to be completed. He also expected judgments to be delivered during the session.
However, events after roll call disrupted proceedings. The court nearly adjourned four cases. Judges then adjusted panels at short notice. As a result, the court heard three cases. One case was adjourned to the August session. It had been marked ready.
Mr Fernando said the situation arose from circumstances beyond his control. He said he expects this not to happen again.
He stressed the importance of judicial responsibility.
“The judiciary’s duty to the law and its integrity takes precedence over personal relationships,” he said.
Looking ahead, he said the court plans to hear 13 civil appeals in August 2026. Most cases were filed in February and March. He said the registry will prepare briefs. He asked lawyers to inform the court of any withdrawals. This would avoid unnecessary work.
Mr Fernando also outlined the court’s performance. He said the court has delivered about 750 appeal judgments since June 2020.
Justice Fernando cautioned litigants against seeking rehearings without valid legal grounds. He said this can undermine finality. It can also affect public confidence in the courts.
Referring to legal finality, he quoted a United States Supreme Court justice. “We are not final because we are infallible, but we are infallible only because we are final.”
He thanked lawyers, judges and court staff. He said their cooperation ensured that judgments were delivered despite initial challenges.