Cabinet Approves Draft Decree Regulating the Judiciary

The Council of Ministers approved a draft law decree on the organization of the judiciary, as part of efforts to develop the judicial system, enhance the efficiency of judicial work, and consolidate guarantees of the independence and integrity of the judiciary. This is to be achieved by updating the rules governing the affairs of the judicial authority and the Public Prosecution, and by establishing a more integrated framework for justice institutions through several interrelated key pillars. This came during the meeting held today, Tuesday, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister.

The first pillar of the draft law decree focuses on developing the organization of the judicial authority’s affairs by updating the rules governing the selection, appointment, and promotion of its members, as well as enhancing the competencies of the Supreme Council of Justice and the rules governing its work.

The second pillar aims to strengthen the oversight and accountability system and litigation guarantees by developing rules for judicial inspection, accountability, and discipline, enhancing the rights of litigants, and updating the regulations governing the work and competencies of the Public Prosecution, while reinforcing its role in overseeing detention facilities.

The third pillar involves developing judicial work and enhancing the stability of legal principles by establishing a comprehensive mechanism to unify judicial precedents of the Court of Cassation, thereby ensuring the stability of legal principles and consistency of judicial rulings. It also regulates trials and judicial procedures conducted using electronic means, in a manner that responds to legislative and technological developments and elevates the efficiency of the justice system.

The Council of Ministers submitted the draft law decree to His Highness the Amir of the State, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect and support him.

The Council of Ministers also approved a draft decree replacing the schedule attached to Decree No. 126 of 2018 concerning the minimum periods required for remaining in the ranks of judges and members of the Public Prosecution, and submitted it to His Highness the Amir of the State, may God protect and support him.