Judges are seeking to emigrate in search for a decent life, in the wake of the economic and financial crisis that hit Lebanon and led to the sharp devaluation of the local currency.
Member of the Lebanese Forces parliamentary bloc MP Georges Okais said that 40 young judges have submitted suspension of work applications, either for family and social reasons or to find opportunities abroad.
“The judiciary is losing its energy, which will worsen the slow pace of work,” he said.
In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, a judicial source said that the number of judges, who have submitted the applications - which allow them to work outside the country for two years or more - exceeded by far the number announced by Okais.
The source noted that the President of the Supreme Judicial Council, Judge Suhail Abboud, “is exerting efforts to persuade the judges to go back on their decision and make sacrifices for the sake of the Lebanese judiciary.”
The judicial source also revealed that around “twenty of the finest judges in Lebanon have resigned from the institution.”
“This wave began with the deterioration of the economic crisis, the sharp devaluation of the local currency and the high inflation rate,” the source underlined.
In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, a judge, who is awaiting approval of the Judicial Council on his suspension of work request, said: “The temporary emigration decision is irreversible, because staying in Lebanon … is like committing suicide.”
“How can a judge live with a salary that does not exceed LBP4 million (less than USD400 in the parallel market), while the burdens are growing?” he asked.
He said his salary was no longer sufficient to cover basic needs, such as fuel and electricity.
“Unfortunately, our country is pushing its elites to emigrate, so that the country remains a haven for thugs,” he said.
