The Nauruan government has hit back at criticism of its decision to sack two Australian judicial figures, labelling it an attack on its sovereignty.
In a statement on Friday, Nauru President Baron Waqa said his tiny island nation had the same rights as Australia to make decisions on who's allowed to work in the country and hold key positions.
Nauru's government is under pressure to explain why it sacked its chief justice Geoffrey Eames and only magistrate Peter Law, both Australian citizens.
Mr Waqa denied the dismissals were politically motivated and suggested the two had engaged in "unacceptable conduct that compromised their roles".
"There have been clear conflicts of interest and disregard for the laws of our nation," he said.
"It is ironic that we are being criticised for demanding integrity and honesty and for making normal decisions every government makes around the appointment of key personnel."
Mr Waqa also rejected "insinuations" that the rule of law was not respected in his nation.
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