Jordan Daily – The United Nations Human Rights Office on Monday expressed serious concern over the Maldives Parliament’s dismissal of two Supreme Court justices, warning of risks to judicial independence in the island nation.
“The dismissal by the Maldives Parliament of two Supreme Court justices raises serious concerns about respect for the independence of the judiciary,” said UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Jeremy Laurence in a statement seen by Jordan Daily.
The two justices were investigated by the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Judicial Service Commission beginning in February 2025. Around the same time, a third justice resigned, and the Chief Justice has since retired, the UN said.
According to the Human Rights Office, “concerns have been raised with respect to the conduct of the proceedings against the judges.” The developments came after the Supreme Court heard a legal challenge to recent constitutional amendments that restrict lawmakers from crossing party lines.
“We remind the authorities of their commitment to maintain and protect an independent judiciary, in line with the Maldives’ Constitution and international human rights obligations,” Laurence said.
“Checks and balances between the different branches of the State, including a strong and independent judiciary, play a vital role in ensuring fidelity to the rule of law by all branches of Government and the effective protection of human rights,” he added.
