Skopje, 9 October 2023 (MIA) - The Ministry of Justice said Monday the Blueprint Group should not rush with an early exit from the working group on drafting a new Criminal Code, saying the working group is independent in its operations, and no influence has been exerted on the group chair or members regarding any provision.

On the stance of the Blueprint Group, we believe there should be no rushing an early exit from the working group because, as Minister Krenar Lloga has said, the working group drafting the new Criminal Code did not take part in those amendments adopted by the Parliament. The contribution of the civil society sector is very important due to the knowledge, the long-standing experience and the skills it possesses, the Ministry of Justice said in a press release.

The Ministry added that the process of drafting a new Criminal Code is fully inclusive and transparent, and should continue for the purpose of implementing thorough reforms in the penal legislation. The task also arises from the bilateral screening with the EU on adopting a completely new Code aligned with international standards.

Earlier, the Blueprint Group for judiciary reforms, comprised of civil society organizations, said it is withdrawing from the process of drafting a new Criminal Code, noting their participation is baseless in a procedure that "legalizes the unlawful" which goes against their mission for constructive, transparent and evidence-based policy building.

It added their step is related to the recent decision on the Group's withdrawal from the working group on drafting the Law on property confiscation in civil proceedings.

Photo: MIA