Ioannis Bougas dismissed the accusations of Zoe Konstantopoulou, stressing respect for the independence of Justice and Greek Judges.
From the floor of the House of Representatives, Deputy Minister of Justice, Ioannis Bougas, went on the counter-attack in response to a topical question by Pleiad Eleftherias President Zoi Konstantopoulou.
Mr Bougas described as absolutely inaccurate and arbitrary the assumption about government interference in the judiciary, stressing that the government strictly respects the independence of judicial officials and does not interfere, nor could it interfere, in their work.
At the same time, he expressed absolute respect for the institution of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, noting that the State provides every institutional and technical facility for its smooth functioning in accordance with the rules of law.
The Deputy Minister placed particular emphasis on defending the prestige of the judiciary, categorically rejecting allegations that Greek judges could bend their conscience in exchange for future exploitations after their retirement.
Mr. Bougas noted that judicial officials are exclusively subject to the law, calling offensive the image Ms. Konstantopoulou attempted to present about their integrity.
Completing his statement, the Deputy Minister of Justice surpassed the recently established Working Group, clarifying its responsibilities as defined by the relevant ministerial decision. He made it clear that it is a moral and national duty of the State to make use of the knowledge and valuable experience of the Honourable Judges, as their experience constitutes an important asset for the country which should not be left untapped.
