. (6) Justices and Judges shall be independent in their judicial work, and shall perform their functions without interference. Their independence shall be guaranteed by this Constitution and the law. (7) Justices and Judges shall uphold this Constitution and the rule of law and shall administer justice without fear or favour; they shall enjoy such immunities as shall be determined by law. (8) Justices and Judges shall not be affected by their judicial decisions. (9) The salaries, allowances, privileges, post-service benefits, tenure and other conditions and terms of service of judicial officers or other persons exercising judicial powers shall be regulated by law. Composition of the Supreme Court 126. The Supreme Court shall be the highest court and shall consist of the Chief Justice, a Deputy Chief Justice and not less than nine other Justices. Administrative Functions of the Chief Justice 127. (1) The Chief Justice: (a) (b) (2) shall be the head of the Judiciary and the President of the Supreme Court, and shall be responsible for the administration and supervision of all Courts; and may issue judicial circulars, warrants of establishment and directives to the Courts necessary for the proper and efficient administration of justice. When the office of Chief Justice falls vacant, the Deputy Chief Justice shall perform the functions of the Chief Justice pending the appointment of a new Chief Justice. Competences of the Supreme Court 128. (1) The Supreme Court shall be the custodian of this Constitution and the constitutions of the states. (2) The Supreme Court shall exercise competences as follows: (a) (b) (c) interpret constitutional provisions at the instance of the President, Government of South Sudan, any state government, or any of the two Houses of the National Legislature; be the court of final judicial instance in respect of any litigation or prosecution under National or state law, including statutory and customary law; have original jurisdiction to decide on disputes that arise under this Constitution and the constitutions of states at the instance of individuals, juridical entities or governments; 42