Skopje, 16 October 2024 (MIA) – Justice Minister Igor Filkov in the report on the government’s first 100 days stated that the foundations for reforms in the judicial system have been laid. He noted that the reforms need to be deep, fundamental and influential, considering that the judiciary is the area where the country has faced the most criticism, especially due to concerns about increasing corruption within the judicial institutions.

“That’s why it’s completely justified that citizens have high expectations, and it’s clear that there is much work ahead for justice and the rule of law. The path is not easy, but we are committed to progressing. In the last hundred days, we have established the foundations,” Filkov said at the press conference on Wednesday.

He did not single out key priorities separately, explaining that they are all equally important and prompt measures will be applied to each one. He announced the launch of extensive consultative discussions aimed at amending laws related to notarial services, enforcement, and mediation, particularly focusing on the laws regarding the Judicial Council and the Public Prosecutor’s Office, aiming to find solutions that will guarantee the independence of these institutions, free them from political interference, and ensure they effectively serve justice.

Filkov announced legislative changes regarding the retirement age for judges and public prosecutors, proposing a retirement age of 67 for all, considering the continuous decrease in their numbers, which affects the resolution of cases.

As for the shortage of prison police, which he referred to as a "pressing problem" in all prisons, he stated that there are plans to recruit personnel from the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia (ARM) who are about to retire.

Referring to the actions taken in the past hundred days, Filkov highlighted several achievements, including the annulment of the previous government’s decision to increase notary fees tenfold, the creation of a new judicial service law, amendments to the Law on Free Legal Aid, the commencement of the codification of civil legislation, and public consultations regarding the civil law to enhance the concept aimed at providing greater legal certainty for citizens. Additionally, he mentioned the implementation of the audio and video recording system for court hearings, “Femida” which will ensure transparency in all courts, something that has been awaited for 14 years.

“This is just the beginning. The reforms we have undertaken in these first hundred days have laid the foundation for deeper, more impactful changes that are yet to come. Our vision for the future of justice in North Macedonia is one where the judiciary is fully independent, free from political influence, and accountable to the people it serves. Every citizen, regardless of their status, financial situation, or other factors, has equal access to legal representation and a fair trial. Every citizen should be assured that corruption in the legal system will be completely eradicated, and those who attempt to undermine the rule of law will be held accountable,” Filkov said.

He stressed that over the past three and a half months, he has held numerous meetings with foreign officials and that the ties with international partners supporting the needed reforms in the judiciary have never been stronger.

Photo: screenshot