Nothing is more important in a true democracy than the rule of law – Ratu Wiliame

President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere says nothing is more important in a true democracy than the rule of law.

While opening the 23rd Annual Attorney-General's Conference at the Intercontinental Hotel in Natadola this morning, Ratu Wiliame says the rule of law must protect the weak, vulnerable and the disadvantaged, must hold power to account and ensure fairness.

The President further says if we respect the principles of rule of law, we change those laws that no longer serve us or that no longer seems just.

He told the participants that as legal practitioners, they are the guardians of the law, no matter what side they represent.

Ratu Wiliame says that is why professional standards for the legal profession is so high and why the punishment for violating those standards can be so severe.

He adds in the end, the system works on trust and integrity.

Ratu Wiliame says laws must change to keep abreast of and ahead of changes in our society.

The President also says industrial hemp is proving to be a high value business and Fiji must not hesitate in tapping into it.

Ratu Wiliame says industrial hemp has been called a wonder plant due to its 25,000 different uses which include food, fiber, ropes, textiles, paper and building materials.

He adds these industries provide thousands of jobs globally and many countries are finding that industrial hemp offers huge economic potential.

The President further says that the industrialization of hemp has far reaching implications.

Ratu Wiliame says he acknowledges that this cannot be done overnight and a great deal of supporting framework is required.

There will be a discussion on industrial hemp in the conference tomorrow.

Government is expected to table a Industrial Hemp Bill next year.