JSC scores 8 percent case completion rate for 2021

Annual report compiled by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has showed that the Commission has a case completion rate of a mere eight percent for 2021.

Statistics published by the Commission shows that last year, 404 cases were submitted. The Commission passed to review 26 cases, and along with eight other cases, the Commission was able to successfully conclude 33 cases. Fifty-five cases are still pending with no decision made.

Looking at the past, JSC in 2017, reviewed 115 cases, with 62 cases resolved. In 2018, JSC reviewed 60 and resolved 23 cases. In 2019, 154 cases were submitted with JSC resolving 48 cases. The next year, JSC reviewed 147 cases, with 85 cases resolved.

Therefore, last year’s statistic is a new low for the Commission.

Fifteen cases of integrity issues were submitted to the Commission in 2021. Only two cases were reviewed and concluded. Seven cases were submitted over following the Constitution and laws – only one case was concluded. Three cases were submitted on oversight. Again, JSC was able to resolve only one case in this matter. While one case of sexual harassment or improper sexual conduct was filed in JSC, the Committee was not able to resolve this case.

JSC added that there were some instances where cases submitted to the Commission were already under investigation with another agency. In such cases, the Commission forwarded the cases to that relevant agency.

Thulhaadhoo Constituency Member of Parliament Hisaan Hussain was chosen from the Parliament to sit on the Commission. She serves as the President. Hussain Masthoor Husny serves as the Vice President; he was appointed to the role by the President. Parliament Speaker and former President Mohamed Nasheed is a member. Supreme Court elected to appoint Justice Aisha Shujoon Mohamed to the Commission. Judge Ali Sameer represents High Court, while Judge Ali Shareef represents the lower Courts in JSC. Civil Service Commission President Mohamed Nasih sits on the Commission, as well as Attorney General Ibrahim Riffath. Abdul Maniu Hussain was elected from all lawyers in the country, while Aminath Ummu Kulsoom represents the public in JSC, appointed by the Parliament.