New Delhi: Former Supreme Court judge Madan B. Lokur has been appointed as the chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council, effective immediately, until November 12, 2028.
This appointment was made by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who recognised Justice Lokur’s expertise and experience in the field.
“I have the pleasure to appoint you, with immediate effect, as a member of the Internal Justice Council, in the capacity of chairperson, for a term ending on 12 November 2028,” Guterres said, PTI reported.
Justice Lokur will head the council, which comprises distinguished jurists from around the world, including Carmen Artigas from Uruguay, Rosalie Balkin from Australia, Stefan Brezina from Austria and Jay Pozenel from the United States.
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Born in 1953, Justice Lokur had an illustrious career, serving as a judge of the Supreme Court of India from June 4, 2012, until his retirement on December 30, 2018. Notably, he was also appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court of Fiji’s non-resident panel in 2019, becoming the first Indian judge to hold a position in the Supreme Court of another country.
The Internal Justice Council plays a crucial role in ensuring independence, professionalism, and accountability within the UN’s administration of justice system. As a chairperson, Justice Lokur will oversee the council’s efforts to promote fairness and transparency within the organisation.