Judicial Service Commission (JSC), on Thursday, appointed Attorney General Ibrahim Riffath as the President of the committee formed to investigate claims of gang influence on the Criminal Court which were made by the Commission on Investigation of Murders and Enforced Disappearances.
Although JSC revealed that the appointment was finalised at a meeting held by the Committee, the identities of the remaining members are yet to be announced. As he holds the position of Attorney General, Riffath also has JSC membership.
According to JSC, the Committee would proceed swiftly with their mandate to investigate gang influence in the Criminal Court and publicize their findings.
In addition to questioning Suood, JSC stated that the Committee would seek information from investigative bodies throughout their enquiry.
At a press conference held on December 31, the commission's president, Husnu al-Suood, alleged that gangs exerted influence over the Criminal Court to the extent that they had a hand in appointing judges. He also accused judges of collaborating with gangs to cover up murder investigations, and to ensure that certain individuals were not convicted or sentenced.
According to the Department of Judicial Administration (DJA), the presidential commission failed to comply with the Supreme court's order to present information regarding the claims.
The lower court has refuted Suood’s accusations as an attempt to stir public unrest, and warned that the remarks constituted contempt of court.
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