Supreme Court of Maldives has commenced hearings in the case filed with the Supreme Court by the opposition, to nullify the amendments brought to Judges Act.
The prosecution claims that 43 members of parliament must be present in the parliament chamber when votes are taken on amendments, and noted that the amendment to the Judges Act was passed in contravention with the constitution. They urge the Supreme Court to therefore, nullify the amendment to the Judges Act.
Lawyers representing the government said in response, that the amendment to the Judges Act was in accordance with the constitution and that it was not necessary for 43 members of parliament to be present in the chambers when the vote was taken as the impact from the amendment would not apply to the general public. The Supreme Court bench questioned both sides.
The bench concluded the hearing after granting two days to obtain information from the parliament, as per the government's request.
The amendment to the Judges Act states, if any judge is found guilty of committing a criminal offence, the judge would be suspended by the Judicial Service Commission without a running salary, until sentencing. The amendment to the Judges Act was approved with 37 votes in its favor.