Prosecutor evaluation delayed to January
Moldova's Justice Minister Veronica Mihailov Moraru has announced that the much-anticipated external evaluation of prosecutors will begin in January 2024. This comes despite previous statements from authorities suggesting the process would begin in November 2023.
In an interview with ProTV Chișinău, Moraru attributed the delay to the time required to form the evaluation commission, including identifying national members. "The three international experts have already been appointed by Parliament," she clarified. "However, establishing the rules of work, methodology, and regulations for the evaluation process will likely take the first three weeks of December. Therefore, we anticipate the actual evaluation to begin in January."
Moraru expressed hope that the General Assembly of Prosecutors could convene by the end of 2023 or the beginning of 2024. She emphasised the need for collaboration between the current leadership of the prosecution service and the evaluation commission to ensure smooth functioning throughout the process.
The evaluation will assess the ethical and financial integrity of approximately 220 prosecutors, including candidates for vacant positions. This will involve scrutinising their assets and expenses in relation to their declared income. Additionally, the financial records of family members will also be subject to review.
This external evaluation fulfils both national and international obligations undertaken by Moldova. It also represents a key condition for the country's potential accession to the European Union, highlighting the importance of judicial reform efforts.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
