The Government of Maldives has extended an invitation to Margaret Satterthwaite, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, to conduct an official visit to the country.
The invitation follows international criticism over the recent dismissal of two Supreme Court justices. Earlier this month, the People’s Majlis voted to remove Justice Azmiralda Zahir and Justice Mahaz Ali Zahir from the bench, prompting condemnation from the United Nations.
Responding to the UN’s concerns, the Government of Maldives issued a comprehensive 101-point statement asserting that the judges were removed in accordance with national laws and due process. The statement concluded with the official invitation to Satterthwaite, saying:
“The government invites the Special Rapporteur to conduct an official visit in order to personally observe the measures implemented to safeguard the nation's justice system and ensure the independence of the judiciary.”
Despite the gesture, it remains unclear whether Satterthwaite will accept the invitation. The Special Rapporteur had previously expressed concern that the dismissals occurred in a context of undue influence and interference.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) conducted the investigation that led to the dismissals. Critics have called the investigation unlawful.
The parliamentary vote to remove the justices saw 68 lawmakers in favor, while 11 opposition MDP members abstained, refusing to participate in the vote.
The United Nations has reiterated its call for the Maldives to uphold judicial independence in line with its Constitution and international human rights obligations.
