Parliament has passed an amendment to the Judges Act requiring magistrate court judges to hold at least a first degree in law or Islamic Sharia.
Previously, the law only required magistrates to hold a diploma. The amendment, submitted by North Thinadhoo MP Saudhullah Hilmy on behalf of the government, aims to clarify procedural ambiguities and strengthen judicial qualifications.
The Judiciary Committee revised the bill to remove the diploma requirement and introduced a transitional clause: magistrates without a degree must enroll in a law or Shariah degree program within one year of the amendment’s enactment, and complete it within five years. Failure to comply without a valid excuse may result in removal from office.
The committee report noted that the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), courts, and members of the public had recommended raising the minimum qualification to a first degree in law and Shariah.
Another amendment allows judges under the age of 55 to retire voluntarily.
The bill was passed with 64 votes in favour during Monday’s sitting.