THE INFLUENCE OF JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE ON THE ADJUDICATION OF ANTI-CORRUPTION CASES IN EMERGING DEMOCRACIES: A COMPARATIVE LEGAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study examines the role of judicial independence in handling anti-corruption cases in emerging democracies. It finds that judicial independence is crucial for fair and impartial trials, especially in corruption cases involving powerful elites. Countries with stronger judicial independence experience more successful anti-corruption efforts, leading to higher prosecution rates and greater public trust in the legal system. However, emerging democracies face challenges such as political interference in judicial appointments, limited resources, and weak institutional safeguards. While international support has helped judicial reforms, local political resistance often limits its impact. The study concludes that to strengthen judicial independence, emerging democracies must address political and institutional barriers, focusing on transparency, accountability, and judicial capacity. Governments should prioritize judicial reforms, with support from both domestic and international efforts, to ensure effective anti-corruption action.