HALIFAX – Concerns have been raised regarding the recent appointment of Cameron MacKeen as a new provincial court judge in Nova Scotia. Political scientist Tom Urbaniak highlighted that the appointment could signal a troubling trend of increasing partisanship from Premier Tim Houston. MacKeen, who served as Houston's campaign co-chair during the Conservative Party's victories in the 2021 and 2024 elections, brings a background that intertwines legal and political spheres.
Justice Minister Scott Armstrong announced the appointment on Friday, revealing that MacKeen is one of three new judges being added to the provincial court system. With a legal career commencing in 2003, MacKeen worked in private practice before joining Nova Scotia Legal Aid as a staff lawyer in 2013. Notably, he began his professional journey as a journalist, which contributes to his diverse qualifications for the judicial position.
Urbaniak expressed that while MacKeen may indeed possess the necessary qualifications to serve as a judge, his recent experience in a highly partisan role raises concerns about the potential impacts on judicial independence. Both the opposition parties in Nova Scotia, the New Democratic Party (NDP) and the Liberal Party, have issued statements highlighting similar worries. They argue that MacKeen's previous partisan involvement could influence how he adjudicates cases, effectively blurring the lines between politics and the judiciary.
In response to the criticisms, Houston's office released an emailed statement underscoring that legal aid lawyers like MacKeen are eligible for judicial appointments. The statement emphasized that there are no specific rules preventing individuals from engaging in political activities before ascending to a judicial role. This assertion reflects a broader practice regarding the eligibility of lawyers in political arenas transitioning into judicial positions, although it does not quell the apprehensions regarding perceived bias or conflicts of interest.
The political environment in Nova Scotia appears to be evolving, with the appointment stirring debate about the integrity of the judicial system. Both supporters and critics of MacKeen’s appointment continue to share their opinions as the implications of this decision resonate across the province.
This situation underscores the ongoing discourse around the intersection of law and politics, particularly in a context where individuals with strong political affiliations are appointed to judicial positions. As Nova Scotia navigates these complexities, the concerns raised about MacKeen’s background serve as a reminder of the critical need for transparency and independence in the justice system.
