ARIRANGA PILLAY

Ariranga Pillay is a respected Mauritian jurist with a career marked by profound contributions to the legal and judicial landscape of Mauritius. He began his academic journey at the London School of Economics and Political Science, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Political Science in 1969. Driven by a commitment to law, he pursued further studies at Merton College, Oxford, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Jurisprudence in 1971, and was subsequently called to the bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1972.

Returning to Mauritius, Pillay commenced his legal career as an advisor with the Attorney General’s Office and Ministry of Justice, where he held several key positions. His expertise in legal matters was recognized as he served in roles including Principal Crown Counsel, Assistant Solicitor General, and Parliamentary Counsel. In 1987, his judicial service took on greater responsibility when he was appointed as Puisne Judge, later advancing to Acting Senior Puisne Judge of the Supreme Court.

In 1996, Pillay was appointed as Chief Justice of Mauritius, a position he held with distinction until his retirement in 2007. His contributions to the legal profession were acknowledged internationally in 2001 when he was honored as a Bencher of Lincoln’s Inn. During a brief period in 2002, following the resignation of Vice President Angidi Chettiar, Pillay served as acting President of Mauritius, demonstrating his readiness for national service at a pivotal moment.

Beyond his judicial career, Pillay continues to shape the Mauritian legal system as Chairman of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission of Mauritius. His commitment to global human rights and social justice is evidenced by his membership in the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights since 1997, as well as his advisory role on the Governing Council of the African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies.

Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ariranga_Pillay