Georgian Dream Rejects Vetting for Judicial System
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
Mamuka Mdinaradze, leader of the parliamentary majority, addressed the issue of vetting, stating unequivocally that it is now closed. Highlighting the importance of maintaining Georgia's sovereignty and independence, Mdinaradze emphasized that decisions made by representatives of the Georgian government should never be influenced by citizens of other nations, regardless of diplomatic relations.
"Our government will never allow the creation of a system in any field where the decision of the representatives of Georgia or any branch of its government depends on the citizens of other countries, no matter how friendly we are with these other countries. We categorically declare that we are not going to attack the sovereignty, constitution, and independence of the country with our own hands. Therefore, this issue is closed, and they should not bother themselves with excessive coercion or PR campaigns," said Mdinaradze.
Minister of Justice Rati Bregadze also voiced strong opposition to the appointment of judges outside of Georgia, emphasizing that such decisions should be made within the country.
According to Bregadze, the decision regarding the selection of judges in European Union countries is made by the relevant bodies of the respective state.
"The unestablished system, which certain forces advocate for, implies that the decision on the appointment of judges in Georgia should be made outside the country, which is unacceptable for us. I support the stance of the parliamentary majority that judges should be selected in Georgia. Let's not phrase it as if they are asking or requesting. Nowhere is it written that judges must be selected by foreigners.
Therefore, it is not true that Georgia cannot join the European Union if judges are not selected by representatives of any other country. In European Union countries, decisions, including the selection of judges, are made by the relevant bodies of the respective state," said Rati Bregadze.
According to the recommendation in the European Commission's enlargement report, which was published on November 8th, Georgia should amend the Law on General Courts to fully comply with the recommendations of the Venice Commission.
Vetting involves the implementation of an integrity assessment mechanism, often conducted with the assistance of international experts, to evaluate candidates for high positions within the judicial system. This process ensures that candidates meet the required standards of integrity and suitability for their roles.
