Parliament Accepts Judicial Reform Bill, Sends to Committee for Review

Parliament has accepted a government-sponsored bill proposing sweeping amendments to the Judges Act, aimed at strengthening judicial accountability and expanding the oversight powers of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).

The bill was submitted by North Thinadhoo MP Saudulla Hilmy on behalf of the government and has now been forwarded to the Judiciary Committee for further evaluation. It was accepted with 69 votes in favour, including support from members of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

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Political Divide Over Judicial Reforms

During the parliamentary debate, opposition MPs raised concerns about the intent behind the bill, accusing the government of seeking greater control over the judiciary through the JSC. They also criticised the recent removal of two judges, alleging that the administration is interfering with judicial independence.

In response, lawmakers from the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) defended the bill, claiming that the previous MDP-led government had a more troubling record of judicial influence and corruption. They argued the current reforms are designed to ensure transparency and rebuild public trust in the judiciary.

Key Amendments Proposed

One of the most notable changes is the proposed removal of Section 32 of the existing Judges’ Code of Conduct. The bill aims to replace it with a more enforceable and detailed framework that includes:

• Prohibiting judges from holding any other government position.
• Banning private employment, contractual work, or business activities.
• Disallowing involvement in stock trading, law firms, or fund management—except for passive investment in government-established public funds.
• Barring the purchase or lease of state-owned land or engagement in any transaction that may pose a conflict of interest.
• Allowing ownership of shares in public companies, provided judges are not significant shareholders.
• Permitting the sale or lease of personal or non-commercial property at market value, without it being classified as a business activity.

Case Delays and Oversight

To address prolonged delays in judicial proceedings, the bill mandates that judges must submit a report to both the Chief Justice and the JSC if a case remains undecided for over a year. Thereafter, monthly progress updates must be submitted until the case is resolved. This marks a shift from the current rule, where only the Chief Justice is required to report delays after six months.

Performance Evaluation and Promotions

The bill also proposes the formation of a dedicated committee to assess judges’ performance and oversee promotions. The committee would evaluate the quality of judgments, legal reasoning, and procedural integrity in its assessments.

The government argues that these changes are essential for creating a transparent, accountable, and efficient judiciary that operates independently and upholds public confidence in the legal system.