JSC Reopens High Court Vacancy After Shaheed Withdraws Amid Political Controversy

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has reopened applications for a vacant High Court judgeship after Mohamed Shaheed, a politically affiliated nominee, withdrew his candidacy following public criticism.

Shaheed, a senior political activist and former Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology, formally withdrew his name last month prior to the scheduled oath-taking ceremony. His nomination drew sharp criticism from legal professionals and members of the public, who raised concerns about the potential implications for judicial independence given his political background.

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He was one of two candidates nominated by the JSC to fill the vacancies left after two sitting High Court judges were appointed to the Supreme Court earlier this year. The other nominee, former Civil Court judge Abdulla Jameel Moosa, was confirmed and has since taken up his position on the High Court bench.

The JSC has now invited applications for the remaining vacancy, with the deadline for submission set for 12 August 2025. According to the Commission, interested candidates must meet all constitutional and legal criteria for appointment to the High Court.

The JSC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting the selection process in a transparent and impartial manner, stating that shortlisted candidates will undergo background checks and interviews before the Commission makes its final decision.

Shaheed’s withdrawal came amid a case submitted to the Civil Court seeking a temporary injunction to block his appointment, which the court had formally accepted.