Susko Rejects Criticism from Opposition (2)

Bratislava, 7 August (TASR) – Justice Minister Boris Susko (Smer-SD) stated he had intended to take part in Thursday's special emergency session of the House Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee and pointed out that he came to Parliament, but the committee failed to reach a quorum. Speaking at a press conference held in Parliament, Susko dismissed criticism from the opposition — which initiated the session — calling it an attempt to deflect attention from the failures of the previous government. „I respect MPs, including those from the opposition. But I came to attend the committee session, not to debate with opposition members. Since the committee was not quorate, I had no reason to engage in a debate solely with opposition MPs,” Susko explained why he'd left. The minister rejected the opposition's continued criticism following the unsuccessful attempt to open the session. According to him, opposition representatives are trying to cover up the failures of the previous cabinet and former justice minister (2020-23) Maria Kolikova (Freedom and Solidarity/SaS). „A recent administrative court ruling confirmed her unlawful interference in the independence of the judiciary when she removed the head of Bratislava III District Court, Fitt, in breach of the law,” Susko noted. As for the European Commission’s Rule of Law Report on Slovakia, Susko claimed it mostly criticised actions taken by the previous government. „For example, the constitutional amendment allowing the dismissal of members of the Judicial Council without stating a reason. Another point of criticism was the introduction of the crime of bending the law – something introduced by former minister Kolikova,” he said. Susko noted that some of the Commission’s concerns have been longstanding and repeatedly raised. „We have resolved many of these issues in a dialogue with the Commission. Some remain because we believe they serve a legitimate purpose,” he added. He claimed certain issues were misrepresented to the European Commission, particularly by the Let's Stop Corruption Foundation. He accused the organisation of misinformation and again rejected its 6 August statement on the negative impact of the Penal Code amendment. Susko also dismissed opposition objections related to appeals in certain criminal cases. He emphasised that it is the courts, not the minister, who decide on guilt and sentencing. He further rejected criticism regarding the increase in shop thefts. mf/mcs