Caretaker Justice Minister Andrey Yankulov stated on Monday that the judicial system should not remain under the leadership of an acting Prosecutor General whose tenure he described as contrary to law and morality. Commenting on the recent elections, Yankulov indicated that the results have clearly identified both a victor, Progressive Bulgaria, and significant losers among established political groups associated with the judiciary’s perceived corruption. According to Yankulov, translating the public support for judicial reform into tangible political action is a crucial issue for Bulgaria’s future.
He suggested that the electoral outcome demonstrates that the public views reform as an inevitability, presenting a significant setback for parties invested in maintaining the status quo. The Minister expressed his belief that restoring legality within the prosecution service should be the initial step toward change, a process he believes should not await the election of a new Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) composition. While emphasizing the need for a swift SJC election, Yankulov stressed that procedural correctness is paramount.
He argued that the selection process must guarantee that independent professionals, guided by the public interest rather than party affiliation, are appointed. Yankulov also addressed the SJC and its Prosecutors’ College, stating they had sufficient time to recognize the situation and act with professional integrity. He warned that if they fail to do so, the new parliament might address the issue through standard legislative action early in its term.
This statement follows the Ministry of Justice releasing an analysis in early April concerning the competency model for senior judicial administrative leaders, including the Prosecutor General and various court presidents.
Topics: #yankulov #justice #minister
