No agreement on public prosecutor’s office law

Justice Minister Renata Deskoska said the meeting focused on the two key topics – the SPO status, and the initiated proceedings and use of evidence in the cases.

“On the other issues, we can say that the clear messages by the European Union have been taken into account and progress has been achieved in this regard,” said Minister Deskoska.

According to her, no procedure should be stopped, since this would result in the loss of evidence and amnesty for crimes.

“It is easier for the status part, because the message by the international community is for SPO to be a separate institution with clear jurisdiction in the framework of the public prosecutor’s office for organized crime,” added Deskoska.

Asked if there is a chance for scheduling a Parliament session once an agreement is reached, the justice minister was affirmative, because the messages coming from the EU say that the law should be adopted as soon as possible.

“There are alternative options for extension of the proceedings and investigations even if there is no agreement. However, I hope for a solution covered by a new law,” said Deskoska.

DUI’s Artan Grubi said the meeting was constructive, hoping that talks would continue shortly and result in agreement.

VMRO-DPMNE’s Antonio Milososki expressed hope that a certain compromise solution would be reached, “because a consensus on the law will produce a long-term solution that would not be reopened or politicized”.