Halifax Provincial Court is pictured on June 20, 2024. (Jacob Moore/Acadia Broadcasting)
An independent Nova Scotia MLA is raising concerns about a recent provincial judicial appointment, questioning whether the decision could affect public confidence in the independence of the courts.
Lunenburg West MLA Becky Druhan says the issue is not about the integrity or qualifications of the individual appointed, but about the government’s decision to select Cameron MacKeen who had a “close and recent political relationship” with Premier Tim Houston as a campaign co-chair.
“Judicial independence is one of the foundations of our democracy. Courts must be independent in fact and in appearance. Public confidence depends on both,” Druhan said in a written statement.
She emphasized her concerns are not a criticism of the judge’s professional record or of the Independent Advisory Committee on Provincial Judicial Appointments, which reviews candidates and recommends those it considers qualified.
Instead, Druhan said responsibility for weighing potential political connections rests with cabinet, the premier and the attorney general, who make the final appointment decision.
“When a premier appoints someone who recently co-chaired his election campaigns… reasonable people will ask if the appointment was due to merit or political reward,” she said, adding that even the appearance of political influence can erode confidence in the justice system.
Druhan previously served as justice minister in Houston’s government before resigning from cabinet and now sits as an Independent member of the legislature.
She also pointed to the timing of the announcement — one week before the legislature is set to reconvene — saying some Nova Scotians are questioning why the decision was made at that moment given the likelihood of controversy.
“Public trust in our justice system is fragile. Once weakened, it is difficult to restore,” Druhan said. “Nova Scotians deserve appointments that strengthen confidence in the independence of our courts — not ones that invite doubt.”
