Why is judicial accountability not against judicial independence?

Correct answer: Because accountability makes judges responsible to the Constitution and procedure, not subordinate to the government

Correct answer: A. Judicial independence protects judges from improper pressure, while judicial accountability requires them to act according to the Constitution, law, ethical standards and fair procedure. These ideas support each other: a judge should be free to decide without government instructions, but the judge must give lawful reasons, follow procedure and remain subject to constitutionally established forms of review or discipline. Accountability is not the same as obedience to the government. Option B is incorrect because requiring government permission for decisions would destroy independence. Option C is incorrect because independence does not mean personal whim or arbitrary action. Option D is incorrect because courts, like other public institutions, are bound by the Constitution and law. The balanced principle is independence from improper control, combined with responsibility under law. Memory cue: independent from government, accountable to the Constitution.