I was well acquainted with Judge Silvio, as during all the years that I served as senior counsel to the republic at the attorney general's office, we worked in tandem and collaborated on various legal and procedural issues that often cropped up in judicial proceedings that fell within our remit.

I also had the privilege of pleading in front of him when he served as a judge in the civil court.

The philosopher Socrates once said, "Four things belong to a judge: to hear courteously, to answer wisely, to consider soberly, and to decide impartially." Justice Silvio Meli epitomised these virtues, embodying the very essence of a model judge. His demeanour was calm and humble, and his respect for others was profound. He was not only a keen listener but also an astute thinker whose jurisprudential contributions will continue to enrich our legal landscape, especially in the area of civil law, where he delivered numerous path-charting decisions while serving as a judge.

Through sheer hard work and dedication, he quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a magistrate and eventually a judge of the superior courts. His ascent was a testament to his commitment and passion for justice.

I witnessed firsthand his exceptional ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders. He brought together stakeholders in the justice sector, fostering coordination and collaboration to ensure the seamless delivery of justice. His dedication to this cause was evident in every interaction.

His judgments are a demonstration that he understood social justice to mean that everyone has the same rights, protections, and chances to succeed, no matter their background. Accordingly, he recognised that cementing and deepening judicial values requires moving beyond treating a law as a mere legal document and transforming it into a living, shared reality for all citizens.

He was often referred to by all as the fair and fearless judge. Importantly, Justice Meli will be remembered by all legal professionals as a jurist who always gave of himself completely to ensure that the rule of law was fairly applied and that all citizens benefited from his passion in administering justice.

Judge Meli was wise, wise in the law, wise in his understanding of people, and wise in the ways of the world. He brought patience and compassion and absolute fairness, as well as knowledge, to the art and science of judging. He never met a person he didn't like, but it must be said that certain lawyers would cause him some annoyance on very rare occasions. His human qualities set him apart and made him a great judge, not just a good judge.

The Bench is poorer for his passing, and he will be missed in immeasurable ways. However, we will continue to reflect on his impact, focus on his generosity of spirit, and what he meant to so many persons within and outside the judiciary.

I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family. 

MARK SAID LL.D.