Kostadinov: Declaring guilt before examining the evidence harms justice and trust in institutions

Kostadin Kostadinov, former mayor of the Municipality of Strumica, has reacted on Facebook following a criminal complaint filed against him and two other people. Police suspect them of abusing their position and official authority, as well as forging documents.

Kostadinov says that holding public office entails responsibility and that he is ready to account for every decision he has made. According to him, the decisions were made in compliance with the law and the prescribed procedures.

He says that for some time now, his name has repeatedly appeared in reports linking him to suspicions and accusations that he considers unfounded, perhaps as a result of someone’s personal interests and intrigues. The repetition of these claims, he says, creates the impression that responsibility has been assigned without his arguments being heard and without the many pieces of evidence he says he possesses being examined.

Kostadinov explains that, on the advice of his legal team, he has so far refrained from responding in order to respect the procedures and institutions. He calls this a conscious decision, not a lack of arguments, and says that respecting them is the path to building a genuine European state governed by the rule of law. He adds that he will present his defense where the truth is established and responsibility is determined.

Kostadinov calls on the media to report accurately and responsibly, while expecting public figures to respect his dignity and the presumption of innocence. He considers criticism part of democracy, but warns that prematurely declaring guilt undermines justice and seriously damages trust in institutions.

He says he is not asking to be believed simply because of what he says, but rather for the facts to be heard and the evidence assessed impartially. Kostadinov reiterates his readiness to account for his actions, expresses faith in the rule of law, and strongly condemns what he calls ways of evading justice. As an example, he cites the case of 50 tons of marijuana that, according to him, were seized illegally, as well as other cases that, he says, are constantly being discussed.

Kostadinov expects others to also be held accountable for their public statements. He says he seeks the same respect for himself that he has shown to the institutions and the public.

Finally, he warns that anyone who knowingly chose to cause harm to him, his newborn child and his entire family will not escape accountability before the institutions. Kostadinov stresses that his family has built its authority and dignity over the years by helping and supporting everyone.