Judicial Service Commission (JSC) President Hussain Riza has expressed confidence that the longstanding challenges facing the Maldivian judiciary will be resolved under the leadership of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
Speaking at the ceremony marking the start of the Judicial Year 2025, Riza highlighted that upon assuming office, he engaged in discussions with President Muizzu regarding the most pressing concerns of the judiciary. He noted that the President provided promising assurances to address all three key issues raised.
Despite being one of the three branches of the state, the judiciary has struggled with administrative weaknesses over the years. Riza stated that President Muizzu has acknowledged these shortcomings and pledged to strengthen the judicial system’s administrative framework, ensuring greater efficiency and independence.
One of the most persistent challenges faced by the judiciary is the lack of adequate courtroom space. Plans to build a dedicated court complex have been discussed since 2011, yet no government has taken concrete steps to make it a reality. However, in his Presidential Address, President Muizzu announced that the long-awaited court complex project will finally commence this year, providing much-needed infrastructure for the judiciary.
Riza, who also serves as the MP for Maafushi, underscored another major issue—low salaries and limited career growth for judicial staff. Despite multiple recruitment announcements, vacancies in the judiciary remain unfilled as many qualified candidates decline positions due to unattractive compensation packages and lack of career progression. This has resulted in high turnover rates, further straining the judicial system.
Riza stated that President Muizzu has committed to revising salary structures and improving career prospects for judicial staff to attract and retain talent within the system.
Another critical issue raised by Riza was the lack of housing security for judges and court employees upon retirement. He emphasized that after years of service, those within the judiciary deserve stable housing solutions. According to Riza, President Muizzu has assured him that a solution will be found within existing regulations to address this concern.
With the government’s renewed commitment to judicial reform, Riza expressed optimism that these long-standing concerns will be effectively addressed, paving the way for a more efficient, well-equipped, and independent judiciary in the Maldives.
