The Chief Justice Abdul Ghanee Mohamed has issued a strong call to the judiciary, emphasising the critical need for judges to exercise careful consideration in their words and actions, both within the courtroom and in their public lives.
The directive was made during the swearing-in ceremony of two new Family Court judges, held at the Supreme Court on Tuesday.
The Chief Justice formally welcomed the newly appointed judges, acknowledging the significant responsibilities they are undertaking. He urged them to discharge their duties with utmost impartiality and compassion, particularly highlighting the sensitive nature of cases heard in Family Court. These cases, he noted, often involve the most vulnerable members of society, requiring judges to possess patience, empathy, and a profound understanding of human emotions.
The Chief Justice elaborated on the essential qualities that define a judge, stating that while they may not be listed separately in codes of conduct, these attributes are intrinsically linked and collectively shape a judge's character. He stressed that in today's era of transparency, where trials are often instantly broadcast and recorded, judges must be acutely aware of the way carry themselves inside the courtroom.
"Even if the courtroom is closed at certain times, now the trial can be seen live in our living rooms and community centres. The proceedings are recorded and stored for a long time. What a judge says or does might be misinterpreted as his or her character. That might even go viral on social media. So judges should be mindful of such things," he explained.
Beyond the confines of the courtroom, the Chief Justice underscored the importance of maintaining a high standard of conduct and behaviour even in public. He reminded judges that their actions are constantly under scrutiny and that certain societal expectations apply to them, distinguishing their conduct from that of an ordinary individual. He further advised that social interactions should also be managed with discernment.
Concluding his address, Chief Justice Ghanee stressed that judges must consistently act in ways that uphold the dignity and respect of the judiciary, both within the courtroom and in all aspects of their public and private lives.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Chief Judicial Administrator Amjad Musttafa and Judicial Service Commission (JSC) Chairman Hussain Riza Adam.