Gerald Campos Resigns from OIJ to Continue as Minister of Justice
Justice Minister Gerald Campos steps down from his position at the Judicial Investigation Organization amid controversy over political freedom and judicial independence.
Gerald Campos has announced his resignation as deputy director of the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) to continue serving as the Minister of Justice and Peace in the administration of President Rodrigo Chaves.
Campos made this announcement during a press conference alongside President Chaves following the denial of permission by the Plenary Court for him to maintain his role in the Executive branch.
The decision from the Court, which came on Monday, was reportedly based on concerns regarding 'revolving doors' between the branches of government and the potential for judicial officials to return with a 'politicized mindset.' In response, Campos expressed skepticism about the motivations behind the Court's ruling, questioning whether his active participation in prison security policies or public demonstrations against the Attorney General had influenced their decision.
Campos has served in his current position since May 2022, having previously held a role in the OIJ.
His permission to continue in the Cabinet requires annual renewal by the judiciary.
This latest vote saw 12 in favor and 10 against the extension—falling short of the necessary majority needed for re-approval.
In his statements, Campos articulated his concerns regarding the implications of the Court's decision, highlighting a potential muzzling effect on public servants who wish to engage openly in governmental functions.
He emphasized the necessity of freedom of expression for officials to serve democracy effectively, countering allegations of political motivations in his previous criticisms.
Campos' relationship with the judiciary has been fraught with tension, particularly following a prior incident in 2023 when a similar request was denied amid allegations of suspected embezzlement and ideological falsehood.
After appealing the decision, the magistrates ultimately overturned their initial ruling, allowing him to continue in his role.
During the press conference, President Chaves reinforced Campos' assertions, dismissing the Court's actions as disingenuous and politically charged.
Campos further clarified that altruistic motivations guided his move to the Cabinet, emphasizing that economic interests were not a driving factor in his decision to leave judicial service.
He confirmed that his current appointment is secure until May 8, 2026.
Campos made this announcement during a press conference alongside President Chaves following the denial of permission by the Plenary Court for him to maintain his role in the Executive branch.
The decision from the Court, which came on Monday, was reportedly based on concerns regarding 'revolving doors' between the branches of government and the potential for judicial officials to return with a 'politicized mindset.' In response, Campos expressed skepticism about the motivations behind the Court's ruling, questioning whether his active participation in prison security policies or public demonstrations against the Attorney General had influenced their decision.
Campos has served in his current position since May 2022, having previously held a role in the OIJ.
His permission to continue in the Cabinet requires annual renewal by the judiciary.
This latest vote saw 12 in favor and 10 against the extension—falling short of the necessary majority needed for re-approval.
In his statements, Campos articulated his concerns regarding the implications of the Court's decision, highlighting a potential muzzling effect on public servants who wish to engage openly in governmental functions.
He emphasized the necessity of freedom of expression for officials to serve democracy effectively, countering allegations of political motivations in his previous criticisms.
Campos' relationship with the judiciary has been fraught with tension, particularly following a prior incident in 2023 when a similar request was denied amid allegations of suspected embezzlement and ideological falsehood.
After appealing the decision, the magistrates ultimately overturned their initial ruling, allowing him to continue in his role.
During the press conference, President Chaves reinforced Campos' assertions, dismissing the Court's actions as disingenuous and politically charged.
Campos further clarified that altruistic motivations guided his move to the Cabinet, emphasizing that economic interests were not a driving factor in his decision to leave judicial service.
He confirmed that his current appointment is secure until May 8, 2026.
