What does the principle of judicial independence primarily safeguard?

The principle of judicial independence primarily safeguards fair and impartial justice by ensuring that judges can make decisions free from external pressures or influences, such as government, political parties, or public opinion. This independence is vital for maintaining the integrity of the judicial system and for protecting the rule of law.

When judges are independent, they are able to apply the law objectively and make rulings based solely on the facts and the law, rather than on personal biases or societal pressures. This ensures that all individuals, regardless of their status, receive equal treatment under the law, which is essential for upholding justice in society.

In contrast, the other options do not directly relate to the core function of judicial independence. The right to appeal is a mechanism for reviewing decisions, the right to free speech pertains to individuals' ability to express their opinions, and the right to privacy deals with personal information and autonomy. While these rights are important within the legal framework, they do not encapsulate the primary purpose of judicial independence, which is to maintain a legal system that functions transparently and fairly.