Abdul Ghaanee Mohamed recommended for Chief Justice post by JSC

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has opted to suggest Abdul Ghanee Mohamed— current President of the Tax Appeal Tribunal and ex-Supreme Court Justice— for the role of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

Ghaanee was selected following today’s interviews with three applicants: Ghanee, ex-High Court Chief Judge Shujau Usman, and ex-Criminal Court Chief Judge Abdullah Mohamed. According to sources, the candidates were assessed throughout the interview process, with Ghanee earning the top scores and a "Highly Recommended" designation.

Abdullah received a "Recommended" designation, whereas Shujau placed third. The JSC will formally submit its recommendation to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu tomorrow. The President will subsequently send the nomination to Parliament, determining the priority sequence. The position of Chief Justice was left open following Ahmed Muthasim Adnan's retirement last month. Ghanee possesses an extensive legal background, having worked in the Civil Court, High Court, and Supreme Court.

He was dismissed by Parliament in 2019 but subsequently designated to the Tax Appeal Tribunal. Shujau stepped down as Chief Justice of the High Court in 2020 following an impeachment process. Abdullah Mohamed has formerly held the positions of Family Court Judge and Chief Judge of the Criminal Court.