The U.S. Embassy released a statement regarding recent developments in Moldova’s justice system, expressing concern over the General Assembly of Judges’ September 27 decision to dismiss members of the Superior Council of Magistrates.

“The United States continues to closely follow and support efforts to reform and strengthen Moldova’s justice system.  

We are concerned by reports that the recent Extraordinary General Assembly of judges’ decision to remove judges from the Superior Council of Magistrates did not adhere to appropriate legal procedure and may have been intended to block needed reform – including the external vetting of judges and prosecutors, or to shield judges accused of corruption from prosecution.  

The United States supports the Moldovan government’s anti-corruption and justice sector reforms. Moldovans deserve a justice system that holds all individuals — including those within the system — accountable for any criminal or corrupt act.  

We encourage Moldova’s judges and prosecutors to uphold the rule of law, facilitate greater transparency within the system, and support efforts that would hold judges, prosecutors or officials responsible for their actions. Such steps will build public confidence in a legal system that works for the benefit of all Moldovans,” the statement released on October 1, 2019, read. 

On September 16, the U.S. Ambassador to Moldova held public discussions with the students from the Law Faculty at Moldova State University. During the discussion, the ambassador spoke about the Moldovan justice reform, transparency and bringing in a Prosecutor General from abroad. He mentioned that civil society and academia should monitor changes in the justice system. 

• The EU and the US will Continue to Support Reforms in the Justice System

In July 2019, the U.S. Ambassador to Moldova Dereck J. Hogan and Chief of the E.U. Delegation to Chisinau Peter Michalko, stated during a meeting that they will keep supporting justice reform in the country. 

Prime Minister Maia Sandu also assured that the new government will commit itself to reform and restructure the justice system, as an independent justice system is important for other sectors.

On September 27, 2019, over 200 magistrates from Moldova’s Extraordinary General Assembly of Judges voted in favour of dismissing six permanent and alternate members of the Superior Council of Magistrates: Dorel Musteață, Victor Micu, Luiza Gafton, Petru Moraru, Nina Cernat and Anatolie Galben.

• The EU and the US will Continue to Support Reforms in the Justice System