Theory question 107
Structure and Organs of GovernmentSection C: Governmental System and Processes
(a) Explain judicial independence.
(b) Highlight six ways of ensuring judicial independence in a democratic state.
Show the model answer
Model answer
(a) Judicial independence means judges decide cases freely according to law, without interference or pressure from the executive, legislature, parties or other interests.
(b) Any six: appointment through an independent body (NJC); security of tenure; good salaries charged on the Consolidated Revenue Fund; financial autonomy of the judiciary; immunity of judges from suits for judicial acts; removal only by due process; judges barred from partisan politics; separation of powers; respect for court judgments by government.
Explanation
Explain, then six ways.