In an announcement made today, the JSC stated that the opportunity to apply for Supreme Court judgeships has been opened following the vacancies created by the dismissal of Dr. Azmiralda Zahir and Mahaz Ali Zahir from their positions by the People's Majlis on the 14th of this month.

The JSC's announcement for two judges stated that, in accordance with Article 148(a) of the Constitution, to advise the President, applications are invited from those wishing to apply wishing to apply for Supreme Court judgeships as per Article 17(b) of Law No. 2010/13 (Judges Act of Maldives).

The JSC stated that applicants must submit a letter of application along with their curriculum vitae, copies of accredited educational certificates with transcripts, supporting documents detailing previous employment in legal work (if mentioned in the CV) including places of employment, positions held, and duration, copy of the license to practice law in Sharia courts, one passport-sized photo, and a copy of the national ID card.

The JSC said that applications should be submitted through the commission's Fahiress Portal before 12:00 on the 22nd of this month. Additionally, those wishing to submit hard copies can do so at the commission's counter during official hours.

The Majlis dismissed Azmiralda and Mahaz after the JSC investigated an ethical misconduct case against the two judges and sent the dismissal case to the Majlis. The JSC began the ethical investigation following allegations that Azmiralda had exerted influence to release her husband, IGMH doctor Ismail Luthfy, after he was detained by the Criminal Court in a case against him.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) informed the JSC that a criminal investigation of the judges was underway, leading to the suspension of three judges since last February. In addition to Azmiralda and Mahaz, Husnu Al Suood was also suspended.

Subsequently, while the JSC was investigating an ethical case against Suood, he resigned on March 4th. Former Chief Judge of the High Court, Hussain Shaheed, has been appointed to that position.