The People’s Majlis has accepted a bill to amend the Judges Act, proposing new restrictions that would bar judges who resign or are dismissed from practising as legal counsel in the same court for two years.

The bill was submitted by MP Saudulla Hilmy of North Thinadhoo constituency on behalf of the Government. During Monday’s sitting, 69 members voted in favour of sending the bill to the Judiciary Committee for further review.

Under the proposed amendments, judges who resign voluntarily or are removed from office would be prohibited from appearing as legal counsel in the court where they previously served, for two years from the date of their departure. This restriction would apply only if the judge had served in that court for at least three years.

The bill also seeks to prevent former judges from representing clients in cases, or any related matters, that they presided over while in office. In such instances, they would be barred from participating in any capacity, including as legal counsel, in any court due to conflict-of-interest concerns.

Another key provision states that judges who resign after a motion for their removal has been submitted to the Majlis will not be eligible for benefits typically granted upon voluntary resignation.

The proposed amendments are intended to establish a clearer boundary between judicial service and legal practice, particularly for those transitioning out of the bench.