Ombudsman agrees with ODIHR that procedures for judicial appointments are underway expeditiously

The ODIHR says in its opinion that the procedures for judicial appointments are underway expeditiously - Unfortunately, this is true,- Public Defender Nino Lomjaria said in parliament on Friday.

The Ombudsman emphasized that the Parliament should adopt the procedure for selection of judges, who will be judges of the highest instance [court] for 20-30 years, therefore more time is required for discussion of the issue.

"There are conclusions of two highly authoritative. The presented draft law is incompatible with international standards in some cases and these organizations offer a specific solution, "said Nino Lomjaria.

The Public Defender welcomes the fact that the recommendation regarding mandatory judicial qualification exam has been reflected in the draft law on selection and appointment of Supreme Court judges.

“It’s also necessary to specify that if a member of the High Council of Justice is a judicial candidate, he/she shall not be authorized to take part in any stage of selection or voting procedures in relation to other candidates, or ask questions to them.

“A member of the High Council of Justice nominated as a candidate should be as isolated from the processes around the competition as possible, "said Nino Lomjaria.

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