President-elect Muizzu: JSC must not include political figures

President-elect Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has remarked that political figures should be excluded when establishing the composition of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).

Speaking at an exclusive program aired by Sangu TV, Muizzu said the commission must be comprised of individuals from the judicial sector, which can also include retired judges.

“Membership at JSC should not be awarded due to holding a certain position,” he added.

He said the composition of the JSC will be changed with this in mind, while the purpose is to ensure the commission is truly free from any political influence.

“My plan is to bring changes to the bill presently submitted, if required,” he stressed.

The president-elect expressed hope for cooperation from all political parties in efforts to reform the judiciary.

Changing the composition of JSC was an electoral pledge of incumbent president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

The JSC is currently composed of a representative of the general public, a representative of the Parliament, the president of the Civil Service Commission, the Attorney General, an attorney appointed by the President, a judge from the lower courts, a judge from the High Court, and a justice from the Supreme Court.

The government submitted the bill to change the composition of JSC on June 19^th.

Opposition parties have highly criticized the government for its failure to initiate these efforts sooner.