Judicial service commission’s reconstitution still receiving gov’t attention – Harmon

More than a year after the life of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) came to an end, the government is still addressing its reconstitution, State Minister Joseph Harmon has said.

Responding to questions during a post-Cabinet press briefing last Friday, Harmon said “it is receiving the attention of the government right now.”  He was asked what has caused the delay and when the new commissioners will be taking the oath of office. Harmon added that when the reconstitution is “ready for public disclosure, I will do so.”

In the absence of the JSC, magistrates cannot be appointed, while the consideration of new High Court and Appellate Court judges is in limbo. The law gives the commission the power to appoint magistrates, while it is also responsible for making recommendations as it pertains to judges, who are appointed by the President.