THE responsibilities of a judge and of the judiciary at large have been under active discussion in society. This reminds me of a tale from ancient Persian history that stresses the importance of justice and governance.

Sisamnes was a corrupt royal judge known for accepting bribes and making decisions, favouring his ‘clients’. It was discovered that he had taken a bribe in a court and passed an unfair judgment.

When King Cambyses II learned of the corruption, he decided to make an example of the man to deter other judges from indulging in similar acts, as this would compromise their impartiality and the fairness of the proceedings.

The king ordered to get Sisamnes arrested so that he could be put on trial. He was found guilty and was sentenced to a gruesome punishment. The king ordered that the judge’s skin be peeled while keeping him alive, and then to use the skin to cover the seat of the judge’s chair in the courtroom.

The seat was for Otanes, the son of Sisamnes, who was chosen to replace his father. The king believed that by doing this, he would remind all judges that justice should be delivered impartially and without corruption.

The story of Sisamnes has several inherent lessons. One of the most common interpretations is that it serves as a cautionary tale against abuse of power and corruption.

It serves as a reminder that a judge must uphold the law and serve justice impartially without fear or favour. Thus, every judicial structure must be strict in nature and approach to honour the principle of natural justice.

Nazim Khan
Karachi

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2023