Corruption, EU – Baltic States, Latvia, Law and Regulations, Legislation

The president said in his statement that Saeima’s decision to lift the restrictions for district (city) court judges and regional court judges to take the position for more than two terms has not been aimed at development of the court system.

"Strong democracies have a rotation of officials after certain terms expire to ensure that other professionals may also take up the roles of the leader. Long-term service in one and the same position may pose stagnation risks," said Vejonis.

The president believes that rotation in the leading positions of the judicial sector would promote professional growth on all levels.

Vejonis calls on Saeima to systematically revise all legislative norms where officials are not restricted to run for the same post for more than two consecutive terms also in other sectors.

As reported, Saeima on November 2 adopted amendments to the Law on Judicial Power, giving more authority to the Judicial Council.

The amendments aim to meet recommendations of The Council of Europe Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) in order to strengthen independence of judicial institutions.