Overview
- In the legislature Tuesday, Premier Wab Kinew said judges should decide based on the world as it is and consider how rulings will be received by the public.
- The Manitoba Bar Association and the Criminal Defence Lawyers Association of Manitoba said the comments run counter to the separation of powers and undermine public confidence in the justice system.
- In a 680 CJOB interview Thursday, Kinew said he respects judicial roles, cast himself as on the side of the people, and framed his remarks as reflecting concern about bail and safety.
- Justice Minister Matt Wiebe defended the premier, saying he spoke in general terms about public perceptions of bail and that the government respects judicial independence.
- The exchange followed questions about a truck driver in the Altona fatal-collision case who was released on bail, and no formal sanctions or policy changes have been reported.