Chamber of Advocates: Parliamentary declarations suggesting favouritism by the courts ‘undermine trust’

The Chamber of Advocates has slammed comments made in parliament suggesting there might be a form of partiality in favour of the Nationalist Party at the Court of Justice.

“The Chamber of Advocates feels that these comments, which were made within the scope of parliamentary privilege, undermine the functions of the Court, in a country that should be led by the Rule of Law,” the chamber said in a statement on Wednesday.

It was referring to comments made by the Prime Minister during an urgent parliamentary debate following the Court of Appeal judgment on the hospitals concession.

“The Chamber emphasises that the separation of power is the foundation of a strong democratic society, so that the Executive, Legislative and Judiciary may operate independently from each other. Any type of declaration that can in any way distort this separation is concerning,” it said.

The chamber said every Member of Parliament should respect the independence and integrity of the Judiciary. “This is essential and vital in a democratic society. The independence of the Judiciary and their liberty to decide without prejudice or influence are indispensable to the integrity of our democracy.”

“The Chamber of Advocates believes that Parliament has a duty to not undermine the trust in the institutions which are there to protect and safeguard the Rule of Law in this country,” the statement concluded.