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SCJ decision: Supreme Court judges will not be able to resign in the next 30 days

Supreme Court of Justice (SCJ) judges will not be able to resign in the next 30 days. The decision was taken today by the members of the Exceptional Situation Commission, after having noted the exceptional situation at the SCJ.

"This is a rapid intervention tool, an extraordinary but necessary measure. We need to adjust and secure the legal framework for the functioning of justice so as to mitigate the risks that may arise and ensure people's access to justice. It is one more opportunity for honest judges to take a step forward and act for the benefit of citizens", stressed Prime Minister Dorin Recean.

According to Justice Minister Veronica Mihailov-Moraru, in the context of several judges resigning and the risk of disruption of the Supreme Court of Justice and a possible halt to the examination of cases, this temporary measure is ultimately necessary.

"If a good number of existing vacancies at the Supreme Court of Justice are filled earlier, the decision in question can be reviewed at any time," the Justice Minister said.

According to the official, the decision is taken in order to ensure the public interest for the continuation of the examination process of priority files, including appeals filed against the pre-vetting committee.

On 30 March, the draft law on the reform of the Supreme Court of Justice (SCJ) was voted in its second reading. It provides for the reorganisation of the SCJ, including the revision of the Court's competences.

Three members of the Supreme Judicial Council were also appointed from civil society. According to the chair of Parliament's legal committee, Olesea Stamate, their role is to unblock the situation in the judiciary until all SJC members are appointed. She added that they will not take decisions concerning the work of judges, but will be able to announce the competition for the position of member of the Supreme Court of Justice.

Viorica Rusica

Viorica Rusica

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