Besides incompetence, behind-the-scenes deals are believed to be the most prominent cause of courtroom injustice in China.

It is obviously unfair to our judges to question all court rulings. But sometimes even fair and just verdicts may appear suspicious when they are reached in secrecy.

Upgrading judges' professional qualifications is imperative. At the same time, allowing sunshine into the courtroom may be a more cost-effective approach to building public confidence.

There is no better therapy for our judiciary's chronic lack of credibility than the Supreme People's Court's decision to make open trials a universal practice.

The judiciary's new mantra corresponding to the central leadership's call for societal harmony is to build a "just, efficient and authoritative socialist judicial system".

This is not as new as it sounds. But it becomes a lot more impressive when the Supreme Court says it wants justice "visible", efficiency "tangible", and authority "endorsed".

In order for that to happen, there is no alternative to opening court proceedings.

Congratulations to the Supreme Court for making a substantial stride toward transparency. That is a winning formula for all parties concerned.

By subjecting their activities to public scrutiny, the courts free themselves of suspicions. The litigants' right to know is satisfied, and the general public has an opportunity to exercise its supervisory role.

Requiring open trials should help clarify the previously confusing requirements and procedures for citizens seeking justice. The courts will also find their own job easier. More knowledgeable litigants will in turn help raise the efficiency of court proceedings.

Once the promise of transparency is honored, we will see a virtuous circle at work. That is where trust will grow between the judiciary and the public.

(China Daily 06/15/2007 page10)