Maldives
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has expressed deep concern over the suspension of three Supreme Court justices in the Maldives, urging the government to reinstate them immediately and cease efforts undermining judicial independence. The justices—Dr. Azmiralda Zahir, Mahaz Ali Zahir, and Husnu Al Suood—were suspended on February 26, 2025, as the court was preparing to rule on a petition regarding a constitutional amendment affecting parliamentary seats.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) suspended the justices and initiated disciplinary measures against them. The suspensions coincided with the Supreme Court's preparation to rule on a petition concerning a constitutional amendment that would strip lawmakers of their seats if they left or were expelled from their party. The JSC submitted its report recommending dismissal on April 19 and scheduled a hearing to make a final decision.
HRW's Asia director, Elaine Pearson, stated that the JSC's disciplinary actions raise grave concerns about improper interference by President Mohamed Muizzu in the functioning of the Supreme Court. HRW emphasized that the Maldives cannot be a rights-respecting country if the courts are not able to independently rule on critical constitutional issues.
HRW highlighted that under the United Nations Basic Principles on the Independence of the Judiciary, judges should be subject to suspension or removal only for reasons of incapacity or behavior that renders them unfit to discharge their duties. Charges brought against a judge should be processed expeditiously and fairly under an appropriate procedure, with the judge having the right to a fair hearing.
The suspensions and subsequent international scrutiny have significant implications for the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary in the Maldives. The outcome of this situation may influence the balance between the executive and judicial branches and set a precedent for future judicial proceedings.
