Dominican leader fears judiciary distrust in judge selection

Francisco Domínguez Brito, a political leader in the Dominican Republic, voiced significant concern over a perceived lack of confidence within a segment of the judiciary regarding the selection process managed by the National Council of the Magistracy (CNM). He attributed this distrust to the decision of some judges to avoid the evaluation process.

"When judges with a track record prefer not to participate, the country must ask itself what is happening. The perception that decisions are already made or that appointments respond to political interests constitutes a serious threat to judicial independence and the credibility of the high courts," Domínguez Brito stated.

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When judges with a track record prefer not to participate, the country must ask itself what is happening. The perception that decisions are already made or that appointments respond to political interests constitutes a serious threat to judicial independence and the credibility of the high courts.

He warned that the politicization of the highest levels of the judiciary weakens the rule of law, erodes public trust, and harms the legal certainty essential for democratic and economic development. As an alternative, he advocated for enhanced transparency and greater confidence in the selection process. Domínguez Brito suggested that appointments should generally favor career judges with demonstrated merit, experience, and independence.

To further improve the process, he proposed establishing an Advisory and Oversight Council. This council would comprise leaders from major universities and former presidents of high courts. Its role would be to support the selection process, offer public recommendations, and help ensure the CNM's decisions are made with greater openness, legitimacy, and credibility. "Institutions are strengthened when processes inspire confidence. The Dominican justice system deserves a selection system that is above any doubt," he concluded.

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Institutions are strengthened when processes inspire confidence. The Dominican justice system deserves a selection system that is above any doubt.