Correct Option: D. Enable the judges to try and decide cases without bias Explanation of the Correct Answer: The independence of the judiciary is a fundamental principle in democratic governance. It ensures that judges can make decisions based solely on the law and the facts of each case, without any external pressures or influences. This independence is crucial for maintaining the rule of law and protecting individual rights.

1. Judicial Independence Defined: Judicial independence means that the judiciary operates free from interference by the executive and legislative branches of government, as well as from private or political pressures. This independence allows judges to make impartial decisions based on legal principles rather than personal beliefs or external influences.
2. Importance of Impartiality: When judges are independent, they can try and decide cases without bias. This impartiality is essential for public confidence in the legal system. If judges were influenced by political pressures or personal interests, it would undermine the fairness of trials and the integrity of the judicial process.
3. Protection of Rights: An independent judiciary is vital for protecting the rights of individuals. It ensures that everyone has access to a fair trial and that justice is administered without favoritism or prejudice. This is particularly important in cases involving government actions, where an independent judiciary can hold the government accountable.
4. Checks and Balances: The independence of the judiciary serves as a check on the powers of the other branches of government. It prevents abuses of power and ensures that laws are applied consistently and fairly. This balance is essential for a functioning democracy.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

• Option A: Dismiss any judge who has breached the judicial code of conduct
• Explanation: While the judiciary does have mechanisms to address misconduct, the power to dismiss judges typically lies with other branches of government (e.g., legislative bodies) or specific judicial oversight bodies. Judicial independence means that judges should not be subject to arbitrary dismissal based on external pressures. Therefore, this option does not directly relate to the core principle of judicial independence.
• Option B: Determine a fixed salary for judges
• Explanation: The determination of judges' salaries is usually set by legislation or government policy, not by the judiciary itself. While fair compensation is important for judicial independence, the act of setting salaries does not inherently grant judges the ability to make unbiased decisions in cases. Thus, this option does not capture the essence of judicial independence.
• Option C: Determine a fixed term of office for the judges
• Explanation: The terms of office for judges are typically established by law or constitutional provisions. While having fixed terms can contribute to judicial independence by preventing arbitrary removal, it does not directly empower judges to make unbiased decisions in their cases. This option is more about the structure of the judiciary rather than its independence.

Revision Summary:

• Judicial independence allows judges to make decisions based on law and facts, free from external influences.
• Impartiality is crucial for public confidence in the legal system and ensures fair trials.
• An independent judiciary protects individual rights and serves as a check on government power.
• Other options (A, B, C) do not directly relate to the core principle of judicial independence and its role in ensuring unbiased decision-making.