The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has introduced a new regulation establishing formal procedures for the appointment and removal of chief judges in courts across the Maldives.

The “Regulation Governing the Procedures for Appointing and Removing Chief Judges to Courts” sets out the process for evaluating the suitability, performance and conduct of judicial leaders, while strengthening the JSC’s role in overseeing the judiciary.

Under the new framework, the JSC will have the authority to remove a chief judge if such action is considered necessary to improve the administration and effectiveness of a court. Previously, regulations issued by the commission did not include specific procedures for the removal of judges from leadership positions.

The JSC is mandated to assess the performance and competence of the Chief Justice, Supreme Court justices and other judicial officials, while also investigating complaints, taking disciplinary action and submitting recommendations to Parliament regarding the removal of judges where required.

The regulation states that candidates for chief judge positions must be approved through a majority vote of JSC members following an assessment of their educational qualifications, professional experience, ethical standards and overall suitability.

The new procedures also provide guidelines for the conduct of commission members during the application and interview processes. The framework applies to chief judge positions at the High Court, superior courts and regional judicial districts.