SJC Approves Amendments to Judges’ Code of Conduct, Allowing Event Participation with Permission and New Reporting Mechanisms

Supreme Judicial Council Approves Code Amendments

The Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) has approved amendments to the code of conduct for judges, as per an official statement. The revised rules now apply to judges from the Federal Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court, and High Courts.

Social and Cultural Events No Longer Restricted

With these changes, judges are no longer restricted from participating in social and cultural events. They can also attend political and diplomatic gatherings with prior permission from the Chief Justice overseeing their respective court.

Pressure, Complaints, and Interference Provisions Added

The amendments include provisions addressing pressure on judges, as well as mechanisms for handling complaints and interference in judicial matters. In case of a complaint, High Court judges must inform the relevant Chief Justice in writing.

Chief Justices and Senior Judges Notified

In addition to the required actions by the judges’ committee within 14 days, the Chief Justices of the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court, along with the two senior-most judges from both courts, will also be informed about such matters. If no action is taken within the stipulated time, the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court will review the issue themselves.