The statement criticized the Commission's objections to the hierarchical structure of Hungary’s prosecution service.Continue reading
The Office of the Prosecutor General has firmly rejected allegations made by Tineke Strik, the European Parliament’s new rapporteur on the rule of law in Hungary, regarding the country’s prosecution service. In a statement, the office defended its independence and legal compliance, dismissing the rapporteur’s claims of political influence and corruption.
Ms. Strik accused the Hungarian Prosecutor’s Office of lacking independence and being politically influenced. However, the Office of the Prosecutor General responded that it operates free from political interference, noting that neither the government, nor the Minister of Justice can issue instructions to them.
It also pointed out that Hungary’s prosecution system, like those in Slovakia, Finland, and Portugal, is independent, while in countries like France and Germany, ministers can dismiss or recall prosecutors.
Regarding corruption, the rapporteur labeled Hungary as one of the most corrupt EU states. In contrast, Eurobarometer 2023 reveals a significant gap between the perceived corruption in Hungary (88%) and its actual impact on daily life (22%). The Office of the Prosecutor General stressed its commitment to prosecuting corruption cases whenever legal conditions are met, highlighting stable corruption trends in the country. It also emphasized positive cooperation with the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), with its Prosecutor General, Laura Codruța Kövesi, praising the partnership.
In response to claims that perpetrators enjoy impunity, the office cited the introduction of supplementary private prosecution in January 2023. This legal instrument allows individuals to request court reviews in dismissed or terminated cases. So far, five reviews have been granted, but no supplementary private prosecutions have been filed.
The Office of the Prosecutor General underscored that it acts in full compliance with the law and reiterated its independence, rejecting the Tineke Strik’s accusations as baseless.
Via MTI; Featured Image: Pixabay