Ecuadorian Judges Warn Public Attacks Weaken Trust in Justice System

Ecuador's magistrates and judges are raising concerns that public criticism of judicial decisions is weakening citizens' confidence in the justice system. The Ecuadorian Association of Magistrates and Judges (Aemaj) issued a statement urging that challenges to court rulings be channeled through established legal procedures. The association lamented public pronouncements that, in their view, harm judicial independence and erode public trust in the administration of justice. While not specifying particular statements or cases, Aemaj highlighted that public manifestations against judges' decisions can create an intimidating effect contrary to the autonomous and impartial exercise of judicial functions. The group differentiated between legitimate public scrutiny and actions intended to delegitimize those making rulings. They called upon public authorities, media, and society to respect judicial independence and the work of justice administrators. Aemaj reminded that Article 168 of the Constitution recognizes the internal and external independence of the Judicial Branch, a principle designed to prevent undue interference and ensure judges can perform their duties impartially. This guarantee, they stated, protects not only those in the judiciary but also the public's right to have magistrates who base their decisions on the legal framework.