Moldova modernises prosecutor general selection: Merit & majority rule
In a bid to enhance transparency and fairness, Moldova's Parliament embraced a revamped process for selecting the nation's Prosecutor General.
On December 28th, lawmakers voted to abandon the previous score-based system, paving the way for a selection centred on majority vote and peer evaluation.
"This reform prioritises a democratic and objective selection process," asserted MP Igor Chiriac, the bill's author. "Each member of the Superior Council of Prosecutors (CSP) will assess candidates based on their professional qualifications, integrity, and personal qualities, with the candidate securing the most votes, exceeding half of those present at a quorum meeting, emerging as the winner."
Prior to this revision, the selection hinged on meeting a designated score threshold from each CSP member, stirring concerns about potential subjectivity and manipulation. The new approach empowers the CSP to establish its own regulations for candidate assessments and contest administration.
Under the revised framework, the candidate garnering the most votes, exceeding half those present at a quorum meeting, will be submitted to President Maia Sandu for official appointment. Should no candidate achieve the required majority, a fresh competition will be initiated.
This shift aligns with the ongoing search for a permanent Prosecutor General following the dismissal of Alexandr Stoianoglo in September. The CSP formally launched the appointment process in October, with Justice Minister Veronica Mihailov-Moraru expressing hope for a finalised selection by January 2024.
Dumitru Robu and Ion Munteanu have served as interim Prosecutors General over the past two years, highlighting the urgency of securing a permanent leader for the crucial legal institution.
The new selection process, emphasising transparency and meritocratic evaluations, marks a significant step towards strengthening Moldova's prosecutorial system and upholding the rule of law.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
