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Published on December 18, 2007

"The country needs justice," His Majesty said to Supreme Court president Wirat Limwichai and judges from the Office of the Judiciary.

Wirat brought the judges for a swearing-in ceremony at the Chitralada Palace at around 4.42pm.

His Majesty said everyone must act in line with the laws, regulations and morality because doing so would benefit everyone.

"If a state becomes lawless, it is doomed," he said, "Therefore, it is very important that judges must be firmly committed to the pledges you give here".

His Majesty urged the judges to honour their pledges throughout their lives even in the face of prejudice and temptations that may constantly arise and try to lead them astray. "You have to be resolute," he said.

At 5pm His Majesty's second audience was granted to senior members of the Judge Advocate Corps of the three armed forces.

His Majesty told the officers, led by Defence Minister Boonrawd Somtas, to maintain the highest military judicial standards to perform their tasks fully professionally.

"Compared to arms held by professional soldiers, the justice and professionalism you all have possessed is also regarded as a weapon. If you can maintain your highest judicial standard, soldiers will not have to use their lethal weapons in the defence of the country," the King said.

"Your duty is of high importance, to keep the country in peace and order, without arms needed to be utilised.

"The armed forces can keep the country in peace and order, not only with the use of lethal weapons, but also with virtue, professionalism and goodness. May you all prosper and maintain the strength to perform your duties."

The Nation