A public call will be issued on Friday for the appointment of four new judges. The call is open for persons holding the necessary qualifications and experience.

“This is another essential measure, continuing the work of the administration of Prime Minister Robert Abela, to enhance the rule of law in our country,” the government said.

“One of the main constitutional reforms of the past year was changing the method of appointment of new judges and magistrates. For the first time ever, the process of appointing new judges and magistrates will be independent from the Executive of the Government. It will be managed by a Judicial Appointments Committee presided over by the Chief Justice. This Committee shall scrutinise all the applicants and suggest a list of the most suitable candidates to the President of the Republic, so that he may decide who to appoint.”

The government said that, in view of the fact that there is a possibility for current magistrates to apply for the post of judge, as soon as the recruitment of new judges is complete, the Government of Malta will issue a public call for the appointment of new magistrates with the intention of having four more magistrates, in addition to the current number of 21 magistrates.

With the appointment of these new judges and magistrates, the Judicial Bench shall have the largest number of members ever to serve in the Maltese Courts.

In addition to the Chief Justice, Malta will have 24 judges and 25 magistrates.