The justice ministry has termed 2022 as the year for “strengthening work discipline and ethics for officials in the judicial sector”, in a purported bid to improve work effectiveness.

Minister of Justice Koeut Rith revealed the new initiative on May 20 while presiding over the appointment of Chum Sar as the new Battambang Provincial Court president, replacing Chea Vannak, who is now the chief of Tbong Khmum province’s top court.

Rith delivered a speech addressed to Sar as well as judges and prosecutors across the country, setting out to inspire them to be better at their job.

“Discipline and ethics for officials in the justice system must be strengthened through the strict implementation of disciplinary measures according to the law, from 2022 onwards,” he said.

By the same token, officials who have worked hard and proactively, with a strong sense of responsibility and internal unity to fulfil their duties will be promoted based on their merits and qualification, he added.

He called on judges and prosecutors to overcome biases, hone their knowledge and skills, and be champions of honour, dignity and prestige in their service to the public.

In a statement, the ministry suggested that judges work on improving their decision-making processes within the confines of the law and established procedures to give correct and fair verdicts. It also called on court officials to be vigilant against Covid-19 even as new cases remain low.