Speaking at the ceremony marking the start of the judicial year, Riza stated that after taking office, he met with President Muizzu to discuss the judiciary's most pressing concerns and received promising responses to all three key issues.
Judicial Service Commission (JSC) President Hussain Riza has expressed confidence that the challenges faced by the judiciary will be resolved under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's vision.
Speaking at the ceremony marking the start of the judicial year, Riza stated that after taking office, he met with President Muizzu to discuss the judiciary's most pressing concerns and received promising responses to all three key issues.
Despite being one of the three branches of the state, the judiciary has remained administratively weak, but President Muizzu has pledged to address this issue, Riza said.
One of the biggest challenges courts currently face is the lack of adequate space. Plans to build a court complex have been discussed since 2011, but no concrete steps have been taken. However, President Muizzu announced in his Presidential Address that construction on the long awaited court complex will begin this year.
Riza, who also serves as the MP for Maafushi, highlighted another major concern, the low salaries and limited career progression within the judiciary.
Despite several recruitment announcements, vacancies remain unfilled as many applicants decline due to these issues. This has led to high turnover among judicial staff. He said that President Muizzu has assured him that this matter will be addressed.
Additionally, Riza pointed out that after years of service, judges and court staff should be provided with housing security upon retirement. He stated that President Muizzu has promised to find a solution within existing regulations.