Rokas: Political influence on justice, a serious obstacle for North Macedonia

Michalis Rokas, the European Union ambassador to North Macedonia, has raised strong concerns about the political pressure on the justice system. According to him, to move forward on the European path, the country must guarantee an independent judiciary, with sufficient human resources and full financial support.

During a conversation on the show “Rishtazi” on KohaCast, Rokas emphasized that the next EU Report on the state of the rule of law highlights positive steps, but at the same time points out essential shortcomings that continue to undermine the efficiency of justice.

Commenting on the content of the document, the ambassador acknowledged that progress has been made, especially with the approval of a series of essential laws. However, he noted that unresolved problems remain troubling. “Interference from politics is one of these issues. It is vital that the judiciary operates uninfluenced and produces results independently,” Rokas stated. He added that lack of staff and funds are two additional challenges that directly affect the system’s performance. “If we aim for a functional justice system, it must have the proper personnel and budget, as envisioned by the laws and the Constitution. These are the first three pillars that require urgent attention and are reflected in our annual report,” the diplomat continued.

Asked about the prime minister’s stance, who has stated that courts do not need more money, Rokas underlined that Brussels maintains an unchangeable line and that institutions must adhere to European standards. “Our position has been very consistent. Our reports every year speak bluntly about the necessity of strengthening the rule of law. Laws must be adopted according to regular procedures and this is part of the reform plan. At the same time, we ask politicians and party forces to distance themselves from comments and assessments of the work of judges and prosecutors,” he emphasized.

Furthermore, the ambassador stressed that the independence of justice is not ensured only through normative changes, but requires tangible investments in human resources and technological infrastructure. “The system must be able to recruit and retain young judges and prosecutors, as well as have the logistical and technological equipment to function. In my meetings on the ground, I have often heard complaints that justice is delayed or cannot be properly administered due to administrative obstacles. These problems are interconnected and cannot be solved separately,” he declared.

Finally, Rokas recalled that the current legal framework determines that the judiciary’s budget must be in accordance with constitutional norms. He pointed out that currently, the system benefits from only about 50 percent of the funds it is entitled to under the highest law. “We are fully aware that, at this moment, the judiciary receives only half the funding guaranteed by the Constitution,” concluded the top EU representative, Michalis Rokas.