Serbian opposition accuses ruling party of deceiving Venice Commission on judicial reforms

A coalition of Serbian opposition parties has accused the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) of "shameless deception" against the Venice Commission. The Platform for European Serbia, comprising the Party of Freedom and Justice (SSP), Serbia Centre (SRCE), the Movement of Free Citizens (PSG), and Solidarity, sent a letter to key EU institutions detailing their allegations.

The coalition claims the SNS government, under pressure from domestic public and EU scrutiny following the suspension of EU Growth Plan funds, committed to amending controversial judicial laws. However, they allege the government submitted one version of the law to the Venice Commission for review, while presenting a different, undisclosed version to the Serbian Parliament.

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a new level of deception, unprecedented in the history of Serbia.

This alleged act, described by the coalition as "a new level of deception, unprecedented in the history of Serbia," aimed to ensure the "prolonged effect" of current controversial regulations. Specifically, they point to efforts to delay the formation of a crucial commission for deciding objections to mandatory prosecutor appointments, which they see as vital for judicial independence. The coalition also highlighted transition provisions that allegedly allow current prosecutors to retain three-year mandates, directly contradicting Venice Commission recommendations.

"This is a clear indicator that the SNS has no intention of abandoning its control over the judiciary, which it believes should serve only to protect the interests of their criminal government rather than uphold the law," the Platform for European Serbia concluded. They are urging international partners to take urgent action against what they perceive as a systematic undermining of judicial integrity in Serbia.

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This is a clear indicator that the SNS has no intention of abandoning its control over the judiciary, which it believes should serve only to protect the interests of their criminal government rather than uphold the law.