The National Magistrate Council (CNM), an entity composed of the leaders of the three branches of government, on Wednesday approved an amendment to the Supreme Court’s statutory Law, by increasing the number of Justices to 17, one more than the current 16.
The decision taken in the CNM’s second meeting continues a tradition by the Dominican Government, headed by president Leonel Fernandez, to balloon the number of elected and non-elected officials, despite the country’s current situation; strapped by financial shortcomings and the threat of a recession.
CNM spokesman Cesar Pina said the decision will allow an additional justice to represent the high Court in the Judicial Branch Council, although Congress has to approve the initiative.
The official added that the CNM’s next meeting is slated for September 14.
