The European Commission reacts to Justice Minister’s proposal to dismiss Kovesi

The European Commission has expressed its point of view regarding Justice Minister Tudorel Toader’s proposal of removing Laura Codruta Kovesi from her position as DNA chief prosecutor due to actions which he deemed unconstitutional and authoritarian.

The statement by the European Commission reads: “The Commission is following the latest developments closely and with concern. The independence of Romania’s judicial system and its capacity to fight corruption effectively are essential cornerstones of a strong Romania in the European Union as reminded by the President and First Vice-President in their joint statement just last month. The Commission will follow developments on the ongoing procedures engaged against the Chief DNA prosecutor closely.

In previous CVM reports, the fact that the DNA had maintained its track record in the face of intense pressure was noted as a sign of sustainability. The Commission also noted in its report that, were that pressure to start to harm the fight against corruption, the Commission may have to reassess this conclusion.”