New Law on Presumption of Innocence, Witness Protection, and Judicial Independence Approved by Senators
The Republic of Uzbekistan has recently approved new legislation aimed at strengthening judicial activities and ensuring citizens’ rights and freedoms. The Law “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan” introduces key provisions such as the right to remain silent, witness protection measures, and a prohibition on interference in judicial affairs.
During the fifth plenary session of the Senate, lawmakers highlighted the significant reforms undertaken by Uzbekistan in recent years to enhance its legal system and ensure the independence of the judiciary. These reforms aim to improve judicial proceedings, increase transparency and impartiality in court rulings, and strengthen guarantees for the protection of citizens’ and business entities’ rights, freedoms, and legal interests.
The newly approved law proposes amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code, stating that suspects, accused individuals, or defendants are not required to prove their innocence and may exercise their right to remain silent at any time. Additionally, individuals cannot be convicted or punished based solely on a confession if it is the sole piece of evidence against them. The legislation also grants witnesses involved in court proceedings the right to refrain from testifying against themselves or their close relatives.
Furthermore, the law establishes strict legal grounds for disqualifying a judge from a case, suspending their powers, or transferring them to another position, ensuring that such actions are only taken in accordance with legal procedures. It explicitly prohibits any form of interference in judicial activities and affirms that judges cannot be held liable for their rulings. The law also clarifies the Supreme Court’s legislative initiative powers, specifying that it can only propose matters within its jurisdiction.
Participants of the session emphasized the significance of the new law in ensuring reliable protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms, enhancing the quality of justice, and upholding constitutional norms and supremacy in the administration of justice. The adoption of this legislation strengthens the protection of individual rights and freedoms through the judicial system in Uzbekistan.
