Supreme Court Criminal Chamber faces growing vacancy crisis
The Criminal Chamber of the Supreme Court is facing a growing number of vacancies. Currently, there are three empty positions in the chamber, which holds the authority to investigate and judge high-ranking officials, including ministers, deputies, and regional presidents.
If the General Council of the Judiciary (CGPJ) fails to reach a consensus on these appointments, the number of vacancies could rise to six during the upcoming judicial term. One position has remained unfilled since 2023. While the Qualification Commission approved a list of 12 candidates in January, political deadlock has prevented the appointments from being finalized.
Within the Council, members are divided on how to proceed. Some advocate for waiting until upcoming retirements allow for a global resolution to the vacancies, while others argue for filling positions as they arise to maintain a perception of objectivity and prevent the politicization of the judiciary.
Entities
Carlos Hugo Preciado · Consejo General del Poder Judicial · Miguel Colmenero · Tribunal Supremo
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Criminal Chamber of the Supreme Court currently has three vacant positions. www.diariodemallorca.es · www.farodevigo.es · www.lne.es
- [● 3 SOURCES] The number of vacancies could rise to six during the next judicial term if no consensus is reached. www.diariodemallorca.es · www.farodevigo.es · www.lne.es
- [● 3 SOURCES] The first vacancy has been pending since 2023. www.diariodemallorca.es · www.farodevigo.es · www.lne.es
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Criminal Chamber is responsible for investigating and judging ministers, deputies, and presidents. www.diariodemallorca.es · www.farodevigo.es · www.lne.es
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Qualification Commission approved a list of 12 candidates in January. www.diariodemallorca.es · www.farodevigo.es · www.lne.es