The Chief Magistrate of the Ukuhlas Magistrate's Court, Ahmed Muawiyath Qasim, has been dismissed from his position due to his failure to settle an outstanding debt, as per a court ruling.

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) confirmed this decision on Wednesday.

According to the JSC, an investigation revealed that Muawiyath Qasim had not paid the debt despite it being proven, which violates the conditions set out for judges under the Judges Act and the Constitution. Specifically, Section 15(b)(2) of the Judges Act outlines that failure to pay a proven debt constitutes a breach of the conditions necessary to hold judicial office.

The JSC held a meeting on December 25, 2024, where it was concluded that the position of Chief Magistrate had become vacant as a result of this violation. Muawiyat Qasim had been suspended earlier in November 2024 while the investigation was ongoing. The suspension was based on the evidence gathered, concerns about the investigation's progress, and a lack of confidence in his ability to serve in the judiciary.

The JSC did not provide details about the specific nature of the issue at the time of his suspension but has now confirmed the dismissal following the investigation's findings.