The Judicial Selection Commission of Hawaii is opening the floor to public opinion regarding the retention of Judge Shirley M. Kawamura. Her tenure as Circuit Judge of the Circuit Court of the First Circuit is drawing close to its expiration on December 16. In line with Section 3, Article VI, of Hawaiʻi’s state Constitution, Judge Kawamura has signaled her desire for reappointment.
Judge Kawamura’s continuation in her role for another decade now depends on the Commission’s assessment – a process where public feedback plays a crucial part. Hence, the Commission has called for written comments or completion of a judicial evaluation form by those with interest in her tenure. Making sure all inputs remain confidential, responses must be submitted by August 5, to Commission Chair Florence T. Nakakuni, Esq. The forms used and comments shared will form a mosaic of community trust in the judicial seat that Judge Kawamura desires to occupy again.
To participate, individuals can visit the Commission’s website and fill out form JS-P-081, the “Judicial Retention Evaluation Form”. Altneratively, individuals who prefer to convey their thoughts in writing are encouraged to send them via postmarked letter or fax. The materials, once they reach the Judicial Selection Commission’s office located at 417 South King Street, Honolulu, will become part of the official record that will aid in forming a decision about Judge Kawamura’s future on the bench…