Supreme Court welcomes new Seychellois judge who pledges honour in new role

Melchior Vidot is the 11th judge of the Seychelles Supreme Court. (Patrick Joubert, Seychelles News Agency)

(Seychelles News Agency) - Seychellois Judge Melchior Vidot says honour and fidelity to judicial duties will guide his conduct in his role as the newest appointment to the island nation's Supreme Court. 

Vidot was sworn in at State House on Friday. He took the oath of allegiance and judicial oath before President James Michel and other government and judicial officials.

Melchior Vidot taking the oath of allegiance and judicial oath before the Seychelles President James Michel. (Patrick Joubert, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

“I have always dreamt of becoming a judge. At one point I thought it would never happen but I’m happy it has finally happened and I’m ready for the challenge,” he told journalists.

Vidot, 51, started his legal career in 1991, following his studies in the United Kingdom.

He first served as assistant state counsel in the department of legal affairs. He has also worked as state counsel, notary, and as an attorney-at-law in a private firm.

Melchior Vidot in a souvenir photo with President Michel, Vice President Danny Faure and family members (first photo) and with other Supreme Court judges. (Patrick Joubert, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

Vidot, who was called to the bar in 1998, is not new to Seychelles judiciary. He served the judiciary for five years initially as master and later as registrar of the Supreme Court.

He was also the registrar of the Court of Appeal before setting up his own practice in 2012.

Vidot said having the experience of all areas of the legal profession would greatly help his new role.

Melchior Vidot in a souvenir photo with President Michel, Vice President Danny Faure and family members (first photo) and with other Supreme Court judges. (Patrick Joubert, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

“It is important for every Seychellois to have ambition and ensure he or she pursues it,” he added.

Vidot becomes the 11^th judge of the Seychelles Supreme Court. His appointment was approved by the president together with that of a Mauritian judge who was sworn in last month following recommendations of the Constitutional Appointments Authority.