The Superior Council of Magistracy (SCM) expresses concern about statements made by Prime Minister Dorin Recean during the Government meeting regarding the decisions taken by judges Angela Catană and Ludmila Beșliu regarding persons under investigation in the “Bank Fraud” case and asks to refrain from publicly nominating magistrates.

In a statement published on Wednesday evening, 24 January, the Superior Council of Magistracy stresses that, when a case is under examination, any statement or exposure of the actions of the judge examining the case affects “the independence and image of the judicial system”.

“The SCM reveals once again that the independence of the judiciary is the foundation of the rule of law and essential for the functioning of democracy and respect for human rights. Judicial power is exercised only through the court in the person of the judge, the sole bearer of this power. The judge is the person constitutionally vested with powers to dispense justice, which he or she executes under the law. The judges of the courts are independent, impartial and irremovable and are subject only to the law.

The Superior Council of Magistracy reiterates that any party to a court case is entitled to use the appeal procedures in order to present the reasons for its disagreement with the decision taken. Only the superior court is empowered to verify the legality of judicial acts in accordance with the legislation in force,” the press release states.

The reaction comes a few hours after Prime Minister Dorin Recean criticised two controversial decisions taken by judges Angela Catană and Ludmila Beșliu on Wednesday, 24 January, in a Cabinet meeting, regarding two persons under investigation in the “Bank Fraud” case.