There have been several controversies over judicial appointments as the judiciary is faced with the challenge of developing itself to represent the modern South Africa. Calls were also made during the year to increase judicial accountability.
A parliamentary committee investigated allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the judiciary. A number of judges and prosecutors were denounced and the evidence collected was sent to the Public Prosecutor for the initiation of criminal investigations.
The presidential power regarding appointment and dismissal of judges is a serious threat to the impartiality of the judiciary. Furthermore, the lack of security of tenure for judges constitutes a serious deficiency in the Azeri system.
Tamil litigants and lawyers face serious language problems, particularly in Colombo: interpreters are not available, few judges can function in Tamil, publication of legislation and emergency regulations in Tamil is not up to date and law reports and text books are not available in Tamil.
In Belarus the procedures regarding tenure, discipline and dismissal of judges do not comply with the principle of an independent judiciary. In fact, no respect at all for the Rule of Law is shown by the Belarussian Government.
Nepal: Lawyers urge authorities to address inaccessibility of justice system to women and girls with disabilities
Syria: Impartially and independently investigate the crimes committed in Suwayda
Kenya: The ICJ’s new Report calls for an End to Discriminatory Laws Restricting Persons with Disabilities’ Access to Justice
African Region: Regional Launch of Practitioners’ Guide on a Human Rights-Based Approach to Criminal Law to Decriminalize Poverty and Status