“Not Just an Attack on Me, But on Justice Itself”: Dr Azmiralda Breaks Silence After Supreme Court Ouster

MV+ News Desk | May 14, 2025
Former Supreme Court, Justice Dr Azmiralda Zahir

In a statement following her removal from the Supreme Court, Justice Dr Azmiralda Zahir has accused state institutions of orchestrating a politically motivated campaign against her, declaring that the move represents a broader assault on the independence of the judiciary. 

Vowing to seek justice, she condemned Parliament’s decision and criticised the Judicial Service Commission, warning that those responsible for the “injustice” will one day be held accountable. In her statement, Dr Azmiralda described the move not as a personal attack, but as an affront to the entire judicial system. She said she remains confident that justice will be served and that those responsible for what she described as “wrongdoings” will eventually be held accountable.

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“I look forward to getting justice someday,” she said, adding that she had highlighted several grave concerns in her formal letters regarding the matter.

Dr Azmiralda also alleged undue influence over the country’s independent institutions, saying she was well aware of how these bodies were being controlled. She expressed gratitude to members of the media and the public who spoke out against what she called an injustice, and reiterated her readiness to provide written evidence for all her claims.

“I can provide documented proof for every complaint I lodged with the Judicial Service Commission, the Anti-Corruption Commission, and other relevant state institutions,” she said. “But unfortunately, no agencies are willing to truly investigate and deliver justice.”

Dr Azmiralda reflected on the impact of her dismissal on her family. “I don’t want anyone else to go through what my husband and children had to endure because of my job,” she said. “Those who frame innocent people using state resources must one day face fair punishment.”

Reaffirming her integrity, she declared that in her 26-year career in the legal profession, she had never misused her authority for personal or political gain. “No one can truthfully say that I have abused my position,” she asserted.

Dr Azmiralda’s statement also delivered scathing criticism of both the JSC and Parliament, calling into question their conduct and motives in pursuing her removal. Her remarks highlight deepening concerns over the independence of the judiciary and the perceived politicisation of judicial oversight mechanisms.

Justice Mahaz Ali Zahir, also removed in the same vote, posted his own reflections on social media. “I am pleased with the work accomplished in the Supreme Court,” he said. “Everything that has been done was done with genuine passion. I am glad to have reached this stage without yielding to any influences from within or outside the Supreme Court.”

Background

The disciplinary case stems from allegations that Justice Azmiralda sought to influence legal proceedings in a criminal case involving her husband, who was arrested in connection with alleged illegal activities at a spa. The JSC claimed that she used her position as a Supreme Court justice to interfere with the investigation — a charge she has strongly denied.

Justice Mahaz, meanwhile, is accused of attempting to influence the same case by contacting a Criminal Court judge. He, too, denies any wrongdoing.

The JSC’s inquiry initially included Justice Husnu Al Suood, but he resigned from the bench before a formal review could take place.

The People’s Majlis today voted to remove Dr. Azmiralda and Mahaz from the bench, passing the Judiciary Committee’s report recommending their dismissal. 

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