Civic groups demand transparent judiciary

ON THE EVE of the publication of the names of 159 people who aspire to be Panama Supreme Court judges, Six civic organizations on Sunday, Nov. 15, called for  an “accessible and transparent ” justice system.

The appointment of judges comes in the midst of investigstions  into an alleged corruption network within the court, fixing arrest warrants, stalling hearing dates and bribing jurors.

Aristides Charris, of the National Council of Community Organizations, read a statement issued by the group that related to the appointment of new Supreme Court judges.

The document pointed out that there needs to be an independent judiciary that administers justice promptly and effectively.

“Society is demanding justice that is accessible and transparent,” Charris said.

Two new Supreme Court justices will be  appointed in December. The 10 finalists for those positions will be vetted by civic organizations.

The civic leaders insisted that persons who are appointed must exercise ethical, transparent and efficient leadership in the administration of justice.