Packed ‘private’ swearing-in ceremony for Camacho

With his family, relatives, supporters, and other guests by his side, attorney Joseph James Norita Camacho was sworn in as the newest associate judge at the CNMI Superior Court during a “private” ceremony yesterday afternoon.

Gov. Benigno R. Fitial administered the oath for Camacho, while Camacho’s wife Viola Alepuyo and their 11-year-old son Ulen Joseph held the Bible at the ceremony held in the governor’s packed conference room on Capital Hill.

“It’s a big accomplishment and I’d like to say not just for myself but for my wife and the family as well as the many, many people who throughout my life have encouraged me and pushed me and advised me; so it’s also an accomplishment for those [people],” said Camacho, a former House floor leader and government prosecutor.

A separate swearing-in ceremony—a public one—will be held on Nov. 18 at the CNMI Supreme Court at 10am.

Yesterday’s swearing-in was needed in order for the administration to begin processing the paperwork for Camacho’s elevation to the Judiciary.

Camacho, who will officially start his job on Monday, replaces Ramona V. Manglona as CNMI Superior Court associate judge after Manglona became chief judge of the U.S. District Court for the NMI.

At the ceremony yesterday, Camacho thanked the governor for his nomination, the Senate for their consideration, his family for their support and encouragement, and all the other individuals who have helped him throughout the years.

Acting Chief Justice Alex Castro, Presiding Judge Robert Naraja and Lt. Gov. Eloy S. Inos also took turns lauding Camacho’s appointment and confirmation, and they all look forward to working with him.

Fitial said he hopes that Camacho will continue to be fair and impartial. Fitial endorsed Camacho’s candidacy during the 2010 delegate race; he finished second in the four-way race won by Delegate Gregorio Kilili Sablan (Ind-MP).

“I want everybody to understand this is not an easy responsibility so continue to pray not only for Judge Camacho but also the rest of the judges,” Fitial said.

While holding the Bible, Fitial said the only thing that people cannot change in the world are the 10 Commandments. “Everything else can be changed,” he said. “I believe in God, and now I believe in the judiciary system.”

In an interview later, Fitial elaborated that laws can be changed, just like anything that man makes except the 10 Commandments.

“Anything made by man or human being can always be changed so there is no excuse for not doing what you’re supposed to do,” he said.

House Speaker Eli Cabrera (R-Saipan) also led members of the House at the ceremony yesterday, along with other government officials.

Camacho invited the public to the Nov. 18 ceremony, adding that refreshments will be sponsored by his family.